Rapper Young Thug was released from jail after agreeing to a plea deal Thursday, ending Georgia’s longest-running criminal trial.
Jeffery “Young Thug” Williams changed his plea to guilty after Superior Court Judge Paige Whitaker asked if he agreed to a non-negotiated plea, meaning the judge would decide his punishment because the defense and prosecution couldn’t agree to a sentencing deal, according to NBC News.
Whitaker sentenced the rapper to 40 years, which would have forced him to serve five years in prison, but commuted the sentence to time served. She also ordered Williams to complete 15 years of probation, which could result in 20 years in prison if he fails, the outlet reported.
The rapper agreed to plead guilty to drug and gun-related charges and pled no contest to charges of conspiracy and participating in a street gang, ending the long series of courtroom twists and turns.
Williams has been incarcerated since he was arrested for allegedly leading a street gang called “Young Slime Life” in May 2022. Members of the alleged gang have been accused of murder, armed robbery, drug dealing and carjacking, according to the outlet.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 26: Young Thug performs during the 2021 Governors Ball Music Festival at Citi Field on September 26, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Governors Ball)
The plea deal included numerous restrictions, including barring travel within metro Atlanta and no contact with affiliated gang members. The rapper must also complete community service, including educating children and community groups against gang violence, according to the outlet.
“There better be no violations, but if there are any, you’re coming back to see me,” the judge cautioned.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 01: Young Thug performs during 2021 Lollapalooza at Grant Park on August 01, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Erika Goldring/WireImage,) Getty Images
Williams told the court he has accepted full responsibility for the crimes and charges and that he recognizes he can set a positive example in his Atlanta neighborhood, using his influence and experience for the betterment of others.
“I know what I bring to the table and I know what I am,” the rapper said, according to the outlet. (RELATED: Fulton County Judge Ural Glanville Recused From Rapper Young Thug’s Trial: REPORT)
“I know the heights I’ve reached and I know the impact I’ve got on people in the community,” he said.
This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
