Rapper Young Thug Pleads Guilty, Faces Probation, Community Service in Gang-Related Case

Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, has pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to gang activity, drug possession, and illegal firearm possession, The Associated Press reports.

The 33-year-old artist will be released from jail but faces a strict 15-year probation period.

Young Thug entered his pleas on Thursday in Fulton County Superior Court without reaching a deal with prosecutors. The sentence, imposed by Judge Paige Reese Whitaker, includes a 40-year term with the first five years commuted to time served, followed by 15 years of probation. He could face an additional 20 years in prison if he violates probation terms.

The plea comes two and a half years after Young Thug was arrested and charged as part of a larger indictment targeting alleged members of the “Young Slime Life” (YSL) gang. Prosecutors alleged that Young Thug was a co-founder of a violent criminal street gang and that YSL stands for “Young Slime Life.” He was charged with gang, drug, and gun crimes, as well as racketeering.

Young Thug pleaded guilty to one gang charge, three drug charges, and two gun charges. He also entered a “no contest” plea to another gang charge and a racketeering conspiracy charge.

Judge Whitaker outlined the strict conditions of his probation:

• Location restriction: Young Thug must stay away from the metro Atlanta area for the first 10 years of his probation, with exceptions for weddings, funerals, graduations, or family emergencies.

• Community service: He must return to Atlanta four times a year for the next 10 years to deliver anti-gang and anti-gun violence presentations at schools or community organizations serving children. He will also complete 100 hours of community service annually.

• Association restrictions: Young Thug is prohibited from associating with gang members, victims, or other defendants in the case, except for his brother and fellow rapper Gunna.

Gang promotion ban: He cannot promote any criminal street gang or gang activity, and he cannot use gang signs or terminology.

• Drug and firearm restrictions: Young Thug must submit to random drug screenings and cannot possess firearms.

• Work travel: He is allowed to travel nationally and internationally for work purposes.

The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendant and the allegations of gang involvement. The judge’s focus on community service and anti-gang messaging suggests an attempt to utilize Young Thug’s platform for positive social impact.

Three co-defendants in the case accepted plea deals earlier this week, while the fates of two others remain undecided. The trial, which began in January 2023, faced multiple delays, including the removal of the original judge after two defendants sought his recusal.