In fact in all likelihood he would be able to get an air-side pass. There are quite a few pilots with criminal records of one sort or another who have them. I know one personally and know through an HR friend that there are quite a few others.
I believe the screening is mainly aimed at those individuals who would be a risk to airport security.
I do hope he finds himself a nice job when he gets out. Bin-man maybe.
I'd hate to think of the poor boy on the dole - taking my money.