1730444379-0/BeFunky-collage-(6)1730444379-0.jpg "courtesy afp")
Atlanta rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, is officially heading home after reaching a probation deal in a prominent criminal case that claimed he led an Atlanta gang.
On Thursday, October 31, the rapper received a 15-year probation sentence, avoiding additional prison time after pleading guilty to charges, including drug and firearms possession, and pleading no contest to racketeering accusations.
Young Thug, who had been in custody since May 2022, faced these allegations as part of a 56-count indictment under Georgia’s RICO Act, which accused him of associating with the alleged gang Young Slime Life (YSL).
His sentencing follows what has become Georgia’s longest trial, with many awaiting the final verdict on the rapper’s fate.
In court, Young Thug acknowledged his actions, saying, “I take full responsibility for my crimes and for my charges. I know what I bring to the table and I know what I am. I know the heights I’ve reached and I know the impact I’ve got on people in the community.”
Despite a prosecution recommendation of 45 years, Judge Paige Reese Whitaker granted him time served and a 15-year probation, with a "backloaded" 20-year sentence.
The news of his release has spurred support across the hip-hop community. Travis Scott took to his Instagram Stories, writing, “My bruddda otw home,” alongside heart emojis, while fellow rapper T.I. shared on Instagram, “Welcome Home lil bruddah, It’s been too long… Time to get back to it!!!”
Welcome Home lil bruddah
— T.I. (@Tip) October 31, 2024
It's been too long... Time to get back to it!!! #KingJeffrey🫡🫡🫡 @youngthug pic.twitter.com/EWKzrsdApu
Praise God! 🙏🏾 https://t.co/3vreNvACYU
— The Chosen One (@KiDCuDi) October 31, 2024
Producer Metro Boomin also celebrated by posting photos of Young Thug, and rapper Sexyy Red took to X, sharing, “THEY LET TWIN OUT!!!” Drake also showed his support, posting a screenshot on his Instagram Stories of Young Thug’s song ‘Parade on Cleveland,’ paying tribute to his friend's return.
THEY LET TWIN OUT!!!
— Sexyy Red (@SexyyRed314_) October 31, 2024
Fans and friends alike recognize the pair’s close bond and physical resemblance. Meanwhile, Kevin Liles, CEO of 300 Entertainment, where Young Thug’s label YSL Records is housed, expressed relief, sharing, “Words can’t express the incredible happiness and relief I feel to learn of Jeffery’s freedom… there will be a time to discuss the criminalization of hip-hop lyrics and the use of bond denial as a weapon… but in this moment everyone should feel nothing but joy.”
Young Thug’s return marks a significant moment for Atlanta’s music scene, as he reunites with friends, family, and supporters in the industry.
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