Young Thug's trial halted: Judge considers stepping down amid controversy

The ongoing trial of Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug, legally known as Jeffery Williams, has encountered yet another delay.

Fulton County Superior Court Chief Judge Ural Glanville announced on Monday that proceedings would be halted pending a decision on his potential recusal. 

This decision comes after defense attorneys raised concerns about an "improper" meeting between Judge Glanville, prosecutors, and a prosecution witness.

The controversy stems from a gathering that excluded defense lawyers, where discussions allegedly aimed to pressure the witness into giving testimony. 

This witness had previously been granted immunity.

Following these claims, motions were filed by lawyers for Young Thug and several co-defendants, questioning the appropriateness of the judge's involvement and calling for his removal from the trial.

In response to these developments, Judge Glanville confirmed he would step aside temporarily, allowing another judge to rule on the recusal requests. 

He assured the courtroom that a transcript of the contentious meeting would be released, providing transparency about the discussions held with the witness and prosecutors regarding the immunity agreement.

This trial, which has already stretched over a year due to various setbacks including a lengthy jury selection process, sees Young Thug facing charges of conspiracy to violate Georgia’s anti-racketeering law, among other gang, drug, and gun-related offenses.

Young Thug, who has seen significant success in the music industry as both an artist and CEO of his record label Young Stoner Life (YSL), is tried alongside five others.

Prosecutors argue that YSL, also known as Young Slime Life, functions as more than just a music label but as an Atlanta-based violent street gang under the national Bloods umbrella, founded by Young Thug and associates in 2012. 

The indictment includes accusations of violent crimes committed to bolster the gang’s reputation and power.