Young Thug released after 15-year probation for gang and drug charges

Young Thug, sentenced to 15 years probation and time served, was released after a lengthy legal case in Georgia.

Atlanta rapper Young Thug, legally named Jeffery Williams, was released from custody on Thursday after pleading guilty to charges related to gang, drug, and firearm offenses.

Williams received a sentence of 15 years probation, including five years counted as time served, in a significant development for his case. His guilty plea came after negotiations with prosecutors reportedly broke down, leaving the sentencing solely to the judge’s discretion.

Williams, 33, pleaded guilty to one gang charge, three drug charges, and two firearm-related charges. Additionally, he entered a no-contest plea to a separate gang charge and a racketeering conspiracy charge, acknowledging these without formally disputing them. Lead prosecutor Adriane Love commented on the case, confirming that no formal deal had been made, which allowed for a flexible sentencing decision. As Love stated, “Williams entered his plea independently of any prosecutorial agreement,” leaving the decision fully to the judge.

Young Thug’s legal troubles began in May 2022, when he was arrested alongside over two dozen individuals accused of involvement with the Young Slime Life (YSL) gang, a group prosecutors contend is both a criminal organization and the namesake for Williams’ record label, Young Stoner Life. The case has attracted significant attention due to Williams' status as a Grammy-winning artist and prominent figure in hip-hop. The trial, which began with jury selection in January 2023, was one of the longest-running in Georgia’s history and faced multiple delays.

Williams’ release reflects a turning point in the case, following similar plea deals reached by several co-defendants earlier in the week. As of now, two co-defendants remain without resolutions, while others will face separate trials.