American rapper Young Thug has pleaded guilty to charges related to gang activity, drug possession, and gun offenses in Atlanta and will be released from jail.
The 33-year-old Grammy-winning artist, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, entered his pleas without a plea deal after negotiations with prosecutors broke down, according to lead prosecutor Adriane Love. This left the sentencing decision entirely up to Fulton County Superior Court Judge Paige Reese Whitaker.
Young Thug admitted guilt to one gang charge, three drug charges, and two gun charges, while also entering a no contest plea to another gang charge and a racketeering conspiracy charge. This no contest plea allows for punishment as if he had pleaded guilty.
The judge sentenced him to 40 years, with the first five years to be served in prison, commuted to time served, followed by 15 years of probation. If he successfully completes probation without violations, another 20 years will be waived. However, any violations will result in serving those 20 years.
As part of his probation, Young Thug is required to stay out of the metro Atlanta area for the first 10 years, except for certain family events. He must also return to Atlanta four times a year to present anti-gang and anti-gun violence messages in schools or community organizations, which can count toward his required community service.
He is prohibited from associating with gang members or the victims and other defendants in his case, except for his brother and rapper Gunna, due to contractual obligations. Young Thug is also barred from promoting gang activity or using gang-related symbols and language.
Additional requirements include random drug screenings and a ban on possessing firearms. He is allowed to travel for work, both domestically and internationally, while on probation.
Prosecutor Love had prepared evidence, including some of Young Thug’s lyrics, to support the case for a harsher sentence of 45 years. However, his attorney, Brian Steel, argued against the charges and claimed the evidence was weak, describing the use of his lyrics in court as offensive. Steel mentioned that Young Thug preferred to take the plea to be with his children rather than wait for a trial.
Young Thug expressed remorse and requested a chance to go home, stating he has learned from his mistakes. The judge acknowledged his recognition of the impact he has on fans and encouraged him to use his influence positively.
Young Thug, who founded the record label Young Stoner Life (YSL), faced allegations of co-founding a violent gang, as YSL is said to stand for Young Slime Life.
His plea follows a lengthy trial process that began with jury selection in January 2023. Several co-defendants have already reached plea deals, while others are still awaiting their outcomes.
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