Prosecutor opposes Clarett release

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — 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 in his prison term.

Clarett, a Youngstown native and Warren Harding High graduate, 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 clemency in the form of 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 the next few months.

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