Ohio prosecutor opposes ex-football star Maurice Clarett’s request for early prison release

Ohio prosecutor: Keep Maurice Clarett in prison

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A prosecutor is opposing former Ohio State football star Maurice Clarett’s request for early release from prison.

Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O’Brien says Clarett hasn’t made a strong case that he should be released so early.

He was sentenced in September 2006 to serve at least 3 1/2 years for a holdup outside a Columbus bar and a separate highway chase that ended with police finding loaded guns in his SUV.

Clarett has asked the Ohio Parole Board for a pardon, reprieve or commutation of his sentence.

His attorney says Clarett has an opportunity to play NFL, arena or Canadian professional football if he’s released within a few months.

Clarett led the Buckeyes as a tailback to the 2002 national championship.