Renowned rapper Young Thug is currently facing charges under Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
This law, originally designed to combat organized crime, is being applied broadly in this case, alleging that Young Thug’s label, Young Stoner Life (YSL), serves as a cover for the violent street gang Young Slime Life.
Charges and Indictments
Young Thug, along with 28 members of YSL, including Gunna, Yak Gotti, and Unfook, has been indicted. The charges range from RICO violations to possession of illegal firearms and possession of drugs with intent to distribute. Thug is accused of being the leader of Young Slime Life.
Prosecutor
The case is led by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Taifa Willis, known for her focus on organized crime cases, including the ongoing case against Donald Trump.
Defense Attorney
Young Thug is represented by veteran Georgia defense attorney Brian Steel, who has raised concerns about the use of Thug’s lyrics as evidence, claiming it is racially biased.
Use of Lyrics as Evidence
The prosecution aims to establish Young Thug’s leadership in YSL and its criminal activities by referencing his lyrics. Songs like “Just How It Is,” “Eww,” “Bad Boy,” and “Take It To Trial” are cited as evidence, highlighting references to legal issues, violence, and gang affiliations.
The lyrics in question come from a variety of songs, including “Just How It Is”:
“I just beat a murder rap, paid my lawyer 30 for that”
2014’s “Eww”:
“Honestly truth be told YSL won’t fold / Pick his ass off from the balcony/ YSL wipe a n**** nose”
“Bad Boy” with Juice WRLD:
“I shot at his mommy, now he no longer mention me”
“Take It To Trial” with Gunna:
“I rep my life for real/For slimes you know I kill”
Case Updates
The trial has faced delays, with a pause in December 2023 due to a co-defendant’s stabbing in jail. In January, the court played Young Thug’s verse from “Lifestyle,” presented a TikTok of LeBron James as evidence, and saw the prosecution’s request to ban cameras during witness testimony.
Additionally, leaked jail call videos sparked reactions from Drake, questioning the seriousness of the case.
