In a significant development, Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Lamar Williams, was released from jail Thursday evening after pleading guilty to charges of gang activity, drug offenses, and firearm possession.
His release follows over 900 days in jail, ending Georgia’s longest criminal trial to date.
Young Thug, 33, was arrested in May 2022 when prosecutors alleged his record label, Young Stoner Life (YSL), served as a front for a criminal gang called Young Slime Life.
Prosecutors argued the syndicate was tied to Atlanta’s violent crime, alleging it was responsible for 75-80% of such activity.
Young Thug was initially facing a potential sentence of 45 years, but after plea negotiations broke down, Superior Court Judge Paige Whitaker sentenced him to time served and 15 years of probation.
“I take full responsibility for my crimes,” he told the court, expressing regret for becoming entangled in gang activities. “I understand that you can’t be that way when you reach a certain height because it could end bad… and it could fall on you.”
As part of his plea deal, Young Thug accepted a no-contest plea for violating Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, as well as for leading a gang.
He will also complete 100 hours of community service and avoid contact with gang members and co-defendants.
For the first decade of his probation, he is barred from staying in the Atlanta metropolitan area except for limited occasions, including family events and anti-gang presentations, which he is required to host four times per year.
Young Thug’s release marks the end of a case that saw numerous delays and legal controversies.
Following his arrest, he and 27 associates faced RICO charges, including serious crimes like murder and armed robbery.
Critics decried the prosecution’s reliance on YSL lyrics as evidence, calling it an infringement on free speech and an attack on hip-hop culture.
Only six defendants remained at trial’s start, with co-defendants Gunna and others opting for plea deals.
The trial itself was fraught with disruptions, including allegations of judicial misconduct and even a courtroom security breach, where a supporter yelled “free Thug!” during a hacked Zoom session.
Now, Young Thug’s release marks a new chapter, while his two remaining co-defendants are expected to proceed with their trials.
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