The US State of Arkansas is set to pardon Keith Richards, 31 years after he was convicted of reckless driving.
An application for clemency was submitted on the guitarist's behalf on July 3. Once signed by Governor Mike Huckabee, Richards will again have a clear record in Arkansas.Richards was arrested on 5 July 1975, and was charged with reckless driving and possession of a concealed knife. Richards, bandmate Ron Wood, a security guard and a fan were driving from Memphis to Dallas when they were pulled over after a police officer noticed the car swerve. The officer, who claimed he could smell cannabis, took the four to City Hall. Richards later pleaded guilty to reckless driving, and was fined $162.50.
The application for clemency was submitted by Governor Huckabee, himself a musician (he plays bass in a band called Capitol Offense). The Governor was worried that Richards' impression of Arkansas would forever be clouded by the 1975 incident.
