Rapper Young Thug has been arrested on charges that include participating in criminal street gang activity.
The hip hop artist, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams, was one of 28 people charged in a sweeping indictment that focuses on YSL, or “Young Slime Life”, an alleged street gang that formed in Atlanta in 2012.
Some of the others were charged with violent crimes that include murder, assault with a deadly weapon and attempted robbery.
Young Thug, who won a songwriting Grammy for Childish Gambino’s hit ‘This Is America’ in 2019, is alleged to be one of three founding members of YSL, according to the indictment. The group allegedly claims affiliation with the national Bloods gang.
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Young Thug is charged with two counts: conspiracy to violate the state of Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (RICO) Act, and participating in criminal street gang activity.
The 30-year-old’s alleged gang activity took place on or between 12 May 2018 and 8 May 2022, according to prosecutors.
Young Thug’s lawyer, Brian Steel, said he is innocent and will be vindicated.
“Mr Williams has committed no violation of law, whatsoever,” he said.
“We will fight this case ethically, legally and zealously. Mr Williams will be cleared.”
Fulton County Jail records show the Grammy-winning rapper was booked into jail on Monday.
A release date was not listed.
The Fulton County District Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Young Thug is known for albums like Punk, which was his third to debut at number one in the US when it was released last year.
The Atlanta native has appeared in two releases of the Fast and Furious movie franchise.
