Young thug.
Photo: Arvin Temkar/TNS via ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock

Young thug made a non-negotiated plea the long-term RICO trial against his label, YSL. The rapper, born Jeffery Williams, pleaded guilty to various gun and drug charges, as well as one count of engaging in criminal gang activity. The thug pleaded nolo pretendere, or no contest, to conspiracy to violate the RICO Act and to a leadership charge for criminal participation in criminal gang activity. His non-negotiated plea means the state and its attorneys can recommend separate sentences, and Judge Paige Reese Whitaker will decide the sentence. Adriane Love, chief deputy district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, recommended a sentence of 45 years, with 25 in custody and 20 on probation. Thug’s lawyers have not yet made their sentencing recommendation.

Thug’s plea follows a moment of drama in the Atlanta courtroom. When court returned late on the afternoon of October 31, Judge Whitaker said she understood Thug’s team was at an “impasse” with the state. She then asked him if he wanted to plead no bargain. Thug looked uncertain. Whitaker then requested a recess so Thug could consult with his lawyers. When court returned about a half hour later, Thug was ready to present his non-negotiated plea.

Young Thug was on trial alongside five co-defendants in what became the longest criminal trial in Georgia history. Three of those co-defendants – Quamarvious Nichols, Marquavius ​​Huey and Rodalius Ryan – reached plea deals earlier this week. Another co-defendant, Yak Gotti, declined a new plea deal today, according to his attorney, Doug Weinstein. “Yak Gotti has rejected the state’s latest plea offer and fully intends to take it to the jury, get our not guilty verdict and go home,” Weinstein said. told Atlanta’s WSB-TV. The final co-defendant, Shannon Stilwell, also declined a plea deal, Law and crime reported.

This is breaking news. It will be updated.