Former NFL running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. was granted an early release from prison so that he could be with his 8-year-old daughter who is dying of cancer. Smallwood’s daughter, Mila, was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer earlier this year.

Background

Smallwood was convicted of a COVID-19-related fraud scheme in September and was serving an 18-month prison sentence. He also pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic rifle in New Jersey. A Gloucester County Superior Court judge withdrew Smallwood’s guilty plea due to his daughter’s illness and his participation in rehabilitation programs.

Smallwood could be released as early as Monday. He played in the NFL for six seasons between 2016 and 2022, playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Washington Commanders.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.