NBA YoungBoy’s upcoming Oklahoma City live performance led to elevated jail staffing and drew accusations of “overt racism” from a Black trustee official.

NBA YoungBoy triggered a staffing surge on the Oklahoma County jail forward of his November 1 present at Paycom Center, prompting accusations of racial discrimination from a Black trustee who labeled the transfer “overt racism.”

The 26-year-old rapper, born Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, is at present on his MASA Tour following a May 2025 presidential pardon by Donald Trump that cleared him of federal weapons costs.

But with every metropolis cease, his performances have drawn intensified legislation enforcement efforts, and Oklahoma City isn’t any exception.

Oklahoma County Jail’s interim administrator, Tim Kimrey, mentioned the staffing improve was a “proactive” step, anticipating the necessity for added personnel in the course of the Saturday night time live performance.

But Rev. Derrick Scobey, a jail trustee, pushed again, saying the choice was rooted in prejudice.

“This is overt racism,” Scobey said, criticizing the idea {that a} Hip-Hop live performance with a predominantly Black viewers would result in legal exercise.

The safety buildup mirrors previous responses in different cities on the tour. In October, New Orleans police deployed 400 extra officers for YoungBoy’s concerts.

In September, Chicago’s United Center canceled his appearance altogether.

YoungBoy’s authorized historical past has been a recurring theme in his profession. Before the pardon, he confronted a number of arrests tied to firearms. Trump’s clemency got here simply weeks earlier than the rapper’s scheduled launch in July 2025, clearing the best way for his return to music and touring.

The Baton Rouge native has maintained a gentle stream of music releases, constructing a loyal following by way of constant output. His eighth studio album is the spine of the “MASA Tour,” which has encountered venue pushback and heightened scrutiny in a number of states.

Law enforcement businesses have cited security issues as justification for elevated safety at his reveals. However, critics argue that the sample reveals a deeper bias in opposition to Hip-Hop and its cultural associations.

The Oklahoma City live performance has grow to be the newest instance of the stress between public security methods and accusations of profiling. Scobey’s remarks have added gas to the dialog round how Black artists and their audiences are handled by authorities.

The Paycom Center live performance stays scheduled for 7:30 P.M. Saturday.

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