Robert Downey Jr. pardoned for 1996 drug conviction

California Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday pardoned actor Robert Downey Jr. for the 1996 drug conviction that sent him to jail. The Oscar-nominated actor was one of 91 people granted pardons for criminal convictions after proving they had rehabilitated themselves.

"By completion of his sentence and good conduct in the community of his residence since his release, Robert John Downey, Jr. has paid his debt to society and earned a full and unconditional pardon," the Christmas Eve pardon reads.

Downey Jr. was arrested in 1996 after he was pulled over for speeding and police found cocaine, heroin, and a pistol in his car; he was sent to jail in 1999 for violating his probation. Though the conviction will remain on his record, the pardon will allow Downey Jr. to serve on a jury.

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