Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III could soon be released from prison as Nevada’s Board of Parole Commissioners considers granting him parole following his conviction in a deadly 2021 DUI crash.
Ruggs, 27, appeared remotely before a Nevada parole board panel on Monday from the Northern Nevada Correctional Center in Carson City, where he is currently serving a sentence of three to 10 years in prison.
The hearing marks a significant development in one of the most high-profile criminal cases involving a former NFL player in recent years.
According to Nevada parole procedures, the panel’s recommendation will now move to the full seven-member Board of Parole Commissioners.
At least four commissioners must vote in favor for Ruggs to be granted parole. A final decision is expected to be announced in June.
Ruggs pleaded guilty in 2023 to felony DUI causing death and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter stemming from a Nov. 2, 2021 crash in Las Vegas that killed 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog.
Authorities said Ruggs was driving his Chevrolet Corvette at speeds exceeding 150 mph while under the influence of alcohol when he slammed into Tintor’s vehicle.
The former first-round NFL Draft pick was released by the Raiders shortly after the crash.
Before the incident, Ruggs had emerged as one of the franchise’s promising young receivers after being selected 12th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama.
During Monday’s hearing, parole officials reportedly classified Ruggs as a “low risk” offender, although board members also reviewed a prior prison infraction during deliberations.
The possibility of Ruggs’ release has sparked mixed reactions online and across the football community. Some fans and observers believe Ruggs deserves a second chance after serving several years in prison and expressing remorse, while others argue the severity of the crash warrants a longer sentence.
Discussions on social media and fan forums have reflected the emotional divide surrounding the case.
In recent years, reports indicated Ruggs completed educational programs while incarcerated, including earning his college degree with a reported 4.0 GPA.
If parole is granted, questions will likely emerge regarding whether Ruggs could someday attempt an NFL comeback.
League officials have previously indicated any potential reinstatement would undergo review under NFL personal conduct policies.
The parole board’s final decision is expected later this summer.
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