U.S. rapper Jeffery Williams, popularly known as Young Thug, was released from prison Thursday evening after pleading guilty to charges involving gang activity, drugs, and firearms.
The 33-year-old Grammy-winning artist had been in custody since his arrest in May 2022, when he was accused of leading an alleged street gang, Young Slime Life (YSL), linked to multiple violent crimes, including murder and armed robbery.
Young Thug’s trial, held in Georgia, initially carried a prosecution recommendation of a 45-year sentence—25 years in prison followed by 20 years of probation. However, during a Thursday court hearing, he submitted a no-contest plea to charges of racketeering conspiracy and gang involvement.
Addressing the court, Young Thug accepted accountability for his actions. “I take full responsibility for my charges and apologize to everyone affected,” he said, describing himself as “a good guy with a good heart” who became involved in troubling situations due to being “too nice or cool.”
Judge Paige Whitaker of Georgia’s superior court ultimately sentenced Young Thug to 40 years, but credited him for time already served, meaning he would not face further prison time. Instead, he will serve 15 years on probation, with the possibility of a 20-year prison sentence if he violates its terms.
As part of his probation, Young Thug is restricted from entering metro Atlanta for the first 10 years, except under specific conditions. He must undergo random drug testing, participate in anti-gang speaking engagements for youth four times per year, and complete 100 hours of community service annually. The court further restricted his interactions with known gang members, excluding his brother, rapper Quintavis Grier (Unfoonk), and fellow artist Sergio Kitchens (Gunna).
According to Fulton County jail records, Young Thug was officially released Thursday night. His racketeering case has been one of the longest criminal trials in Georgia’s history.
Read the full article here
