Young Thug has scored a post-trial victory after a Fulton County judge ruled that the rapper should have his seized possessions returned. On Monday, Judge Paige Whitaker, who presided over Georgia’s longest criminal trial in history, granted a motion filed by Young Thug’s attorney, Brian Steel, demanding the return of his client’s belongings.
The rapper, born Jeffery Williams, had multiple items—including cars, jewelry, and other valuables—confiscated during his highly publicized RICO case. Prosecutors argued these items were linked to alleged criminal activity tied to the Young Slime Life (YSL) gang. However, Judge Whitaker sided with the defense, dismissing the state’s claims and ordering Williams’ property to be returned.
Williams was first arrested in May 2022 alongside 27 others in a sweeping RICO indictment. Prosecutors alleged he was the leader of YSL, which they described as a violent street gang. Defense attorneys countered that YSL stood for Young Stoner Life, a legitimate record label. Young Thug initially faced eight criminal counts, including weapons and drug-related charges, but struck a non-negotiated plea deal last Halloween. He was sentenced to 40 years, with five years to serve, though his sentence was ultimately commuted to time served—leading to his release.
Since regaining his freedom, Young Thug has slowly returned to public life. He made his first concert appearance earlier this year and recently spoke at a local high school as part of the terms of his plea deal. With the court’s latest ruling, he now regains not only his freedom but also the possessions that prosecutors once sought to keep out of his hands.
Source: Atlanta News First
