Young Thug Changes Plea to Guilty in Georgia's Long-Running Criminal Trial

Young Thug Changes Plea and Avoids Prison

Atlanta rap star Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams, changed his plea to guilty on Thursday in Georgia’s longest-running criminal trial. He averted prison time and will serve probation instead, which has marked a stunning conclusion to a highly publicized case.

Details of the Plea Change

The high-profile case had kept court watchers engaged for nearly two years. Initially, the plea change seemed uncertain when Superior Court Judge Paige Whitaker inquired about a nonnegotiated plea deal. Eventually, Young Thug agreed to plead guilty to drug- and gun-related charges and no contest to charges related to conspiracy and participation in a street gang.

• Young Thug was sentenced to 40 years, including a requirement to serve five years in prison.
• The judge commuted this sentence to time served.
• In addition to probation for 15 years, Young Thug is subject to various restrictions.

Probation Requirements

As part of his probation, Young Thug cannot travel in metro Atlanta and is prohibited from contacting affiliated gang members. He is also required to perform community service that includes presentations against gang violence.

The judge made it clear: “There better be no violations, but if there are any, you’re coming back to see me.”