Sheff G started serving a five-year jail sentence Wednesday morning in Brooklyn after pleading responsible to tried homicide and conspiracy costs tied to a sprawling gang investigation. The 25-year-old rapper, whose actual title is Michael Williams, was taken into custody at Brooklyn State Supreme Court at 9 a.m.

The costs stem from a 140-count indictment that focused 32 alleged associates of the “8-Trey Crips” and “9 Ways Gang,” which prosecutors say have been answerable for a wave of violence throughout New York City.

Prosecutors Linked Lyrics to Street Violence

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez described Williams as each a “founding father” of Brooklyn drill music and a “gangland godfather.” The case has reignited nationwide debate over the connection between music/drill-rap-nyc-eric-adams.html”>drill rap and real-life violence, with authorities citing lyrics and social media posts as proof of legal exercise.

NYPD Assistant Chief of Detectives Jason Savino mentioned through the investigation, “If Sheff said something, it happened. A simple text, ‘We got to get a big one,’ created a war.”

Although prosecutors initially sought a 20-year sentence, the choose decreased it to 5 years, noting there was no proof that Williams personally fired a weapon. He may also serve 5 years of post-release supervision.

Career Momentum Halted by Legal Fallout

Before his arrest, Williams was driving a wave of success. He had simply wrapped up an 18-city tour with Sleepy Hallow, ending with a packed present at Manhattan’s Terminal 5. In an interview with FOX 5 NY’s Lisa Evers, Williams mentioned, “We be doing the shows, and after the shows we be doing the meet and greets. So we really like getting to talk to the fans and see what songs they like.”

When requested about violence at his performances, he responded, “Not at all. Not at all Lisa.”

Despite his rising profile, Williams had a protracted historical past with road gangs. He joined the 83 Gangsta Crips at age 12 and had beforehand served time earlier than turning to music full-time.

Political Appearance Raised Eyebrows

In May 2024, Williams and Sleepy Hallow appeared on stage with former President Donald Trump throughout a Bronx marketing campaign rally. Both artists have been already going through gang-related costs on the time, and the looks drew widespread consideration.

After posting $1.5 million bail in April, Williams used his transient freedom to launch a report label with Sleepy Hallow, safe a serious deal and acquire a number of gold and platinum certifications.

Because his conviction got here by way of the state courtroom system and never federal costs, Williams will not be eligible for a presidential pardon. He formally started serving his sentence on June 12, 2024.

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