Monday, February 17, 2025
spot_imgspot_img

Top 5 This Week

spot_imgspot_img

Related Posts

In Georgia’s longest criminal trial, Co-defendants of Young Thug found not guilty


Georgia’s longest-running criminal trial culminated in not guilty verdicts for two co-defendants, except for one charge, in a sprawling racketeering case that involved rap superstar Young Thug. The two defendants, Deamonte Kendrick and Shannon Stillwell, faced charges related to the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations statute, including murder and conspiracy to violate RICO. The trial began with 28 co-defendants, which included Young Thug, who was accused of leading an Atlanta street gang called YSL. The trial featured multiple delays, unexpected turns, and plea deals by several defendants. Ultimately, the jury found Kendrick not guilty and Stillwell not guilty, except for one felony gun possession charge. The proceedings were livestreamed and included dramatic moments, such as Kendrick being stabbed in jail.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution argued that the defendants were part of a criminal street gang that used weapons on rivals, while the defense maintained the state failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The case faced setbacks, including missteps by the prosecution that led to potential mistrial motions and delays. Young Thug ultimately accepted a plea deal and was released from jail with 15 years of probation.

Critics raised concerns that the case was targeting Black hip-hop artists and questioned the use of Young Thug’s lyrics as evidence of gang activity. The trial, which lasted nearly two years, involved over 175 witnesses and riveted social media users. The end of the trial marked a significant milestone in Georgia’s legal history, surpassing the previous record for the longest criminal trial.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Popular Articles