Rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Lamar Williams, is facing a racketeering trial in Georgia, accused of co-founding a violent street gang in Atlanta. Prosecutors are using the rapper’s lyrics as evidence, asserting that the performer oversaw numerous crimes linked to the alleged gang.
The trial, which began with a colourful opening statement, contends that Young Thug’s music label, YSL, is not a legitimate business but a street gang affiliated with the US-based Bloods gang.
Mrs Love said that the group “moved like a pack” that “had an agreement – unspoken, but no less an agreement” to obtain “things of value” and property through illegal activity.
“We didn’t chase any of the lyrics to solve any murders,” she said. “Law enforcement in Fulton County chased the murders and found the lyrics.”
If found guilty, the 32-year-old rapper could face decades in prison. The trial faces challenges, including objections, delays, and discussions on free speech and racial bias. Georgia prosecutors are utilizing the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (Rico) Act, known for mafia prosecutions, in both Young Thug’s case and the charges against ex-US President Donald Trump and his co-defendants. Trial lawyer Neama Rahmani suggests that success in Young Thug’s case could impact the outcome of the Trump case.
The trial, expected to last six months, is part of a decade-long investigation, and up to 400 witnesses, including popular rappers like Killer Mike, Lil Wayne, and TI, may testify.
The use of rap lyrics as evidence has raised questions about free speech and racial bias, with the judge allowing 17 sets of lyrics to be introduced, tied to alleged crimes committed by YSL members.
Prosecutors contend that lyrics from the 2018 track “Anybody” featuring Nicki Minaj imply involvement in a sanctioned killing by Mr. Williams. In the song’s chorus, he asserts, “I never killed anybody, but I got something to do with that body,” portraying himself as the “general” of the group.
Another lyric mentioned by prosecutors alludes to a “hundred rounds in a Tahoe,” claiming that a YSL murder victim was inside a Chevy Tahoe during the fatal incident.
Kevin Liles, the CEO of Warner Music’s 300 Entertainment representing Mr. Williams, attended the trial on Monday and is anticipated to testify as a witness. Liles remarked to reporters outside court that if this were country or rock music, the trial wouldn’t be taking place.