CJ Stroud, the Houston Texans quarterback, has captured the NFL world’s attention not only for his on-field talent but also for his passionate advocacy for prison reform. This cause is deeply personal for Stroud, stemming from the incarceration of his father, Coleridge Bernard Stroud III. But why is CJ Stroud’s dad in jail? The answer involves a complex story of faith, addiction, and the harsh realities of the justice system.
Coleridge Bernard Stroud III was sentenced to a lengthy prison term when CJ was just 13 years old. In 2015, the elder Stroud pleaded guilty to a series of serious charges including carjacking, kidnapping, robbery, evading an officer with reckless driving, and misdemeanor sexual battery. Due to prior convictions, he received a severe sentence of 38 years behind bars. This event significantly shaped CJ Stroud’s life and fueled his commitment to advocating for those impacted by the prison system.
Alt text: CJ Stroud, Houston Texans quarterback, speaking about using his NFL platform to spread his faith and purpose.
However, the narrative is more nuanced than a simple list of charges suggests. Coleridge Stroud III was once a pastor, deeply involved in his community and church. He and his wife, Kimberly, established a strong Christian household. As the pastor of Life Application Christian Center in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Coleridge even involved a young CJ in his ministry, allowing him to address the congregation. This background of faith and community involvement adds layers to the story of his downfall.
After overcoming a drug addiction in his youth, Coleridge Stroud maintained sobriety for over two decades, dedicating himself to his ministry and family. However, when Kimberly filed for divorce in 2012, Coleridge relapsed. He described his life as spiraling “out of control” as he succumbed to drug use once again.
In April 2015, under the influence of drugs, Coleridge Stroud committed the actions that led to his imprisonment. He entered a woman’s car at a traffic light and demanded she drive him to procure drugs. While the woman escaped, she alleged a sexual assault during the encounter. Subsequently, she reported her car stolen. Police located Stroud in the vehicle, initiating a chase that ended when he crashed. Following the crash, he attempted to evade capture by entering San Diego Bay.
Alt text: Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud discussing visiting his father in prison and expressing hope for his early release.
At his trial, Coleridge Stroud pleaded guilty to all charges. His prior convictions for drug and robbery offenses in the early 1990s triggered California’s “three strikes” law, resulting in a sentence near the maximum penalty. He will be eligible for parole at the age of 74. The severity of the sentence, driven by the three-strikes law, is a key point in understanding the length of his incarceration.
CJ Stroud has openly discussed his complex emotions regarding his father’s situation. While acknowledging past anger, he now approaches the situation with greater understanding. He recognizes the challenges of life and personal struggles, stating, “People slip up. People make mistakes. As I’m getting older, I’m realizing how tough it is to be a man. Not only a man, but a Black man in our communities.”
Alt text: Highlight of CJ Stroud throwing a touchdown pass for the Houston Texans, showcasing his on-field success amidst personal challenges.
The incarceration of CJ’s father profoundly impacted his family. His mother, Kimberly, became the sole provider for their four children, facing significant financial hardship and the threat of homelessness. Despite these challenges, CJ has found strength and perspective. He emphasizes the importance of faith and doing “the right thing,” lessons he attributes to his father, even in light of his mistakes. CJ has expressed forgiveness and love for his father, focusing on personal growth rather than resentment.
There is a possibility of early release for Coleridge Stroud. His legal team is challenging the sentence based on the three-strikes law, arguing that his second conviction was for a non-violent offense. If successful, this could potentially reduce his sentence and allow for earlier parole. This hope for his father’s release further fuels CJ Stroud’s advocacy for criminal justice reform, highlighting the need for re-evaluation of sentencing laws and their impact on families.
