Patriots owner Robert Kraft calls for criminal justice reform after visiting with Meek Mill in prison
- New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft visited Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill in prison on Tuesday, accompanied by Philadelphia 76ers owner Michael Rubin.
- After the meeting, Kraft spoke with reporters, arguing for action concerning criminal justice reform.
- Meek Mill is currently serving two-to-four years for violating his probation, with Pennsylvania's highest court now considering his request to be released on bail.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft had an unexpected visit with Meek Mill in prison on Tuesday, as the rapper awaits a bail ruling from Pennsylvania courts. Philadelphia 76ers owner Michael Rubin joined Kraft on the trip.
After the meeting, Kraft spoke with reporters outside, saying he was affected by the interaction with Meek Mill, and calling for criminal justice reform.
"He's an amazing young man," Kraft said to reporters. "I know how I'd feel if I were in the situation he is. He's very intelligent."
Kraft went on to discuss how his interactions with NFL players shaped his views on criminal justice reform.
"It's really bad. I know some of our players in the NFL have talked about this. I see it firsthand. It's just wrong. We have to find a way to correct it and also help the community help themselves. It's just sad. This guy is a great guy. Shouldn't be here. And then think of all the taxpayers here paying for people like this to be in jail and not out being productive."
You can watch some of Kraft's comments below.
Meek Mill is currently serving a two to four year sentence for violating his probation, leading to many in the local community to call for his release, arguing the punishment far outweighs his crime. His request to be released on bail has now made its way all the way up to Pennsylvania's highest court.
The Philadelphia Eagles adopted Meek Mill's song "Dreams and Nightmares" as an anthem of sorts through the 2017 season, using it as the soundtrack to their Super Bowl entrance before defeating the Patriots.