Minnesota rapper Lil Shine, born Jasper William Johnson, faces federal charges for allegedly hacking into the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) system to gain unauthorized access to codeine prescriptions. The indictment, viewed by HipHopDX, names Shine alongside co-defendants Oscar Becerra-Ruiz and Raujaun Keon Varner.
According to prosecutors, the trio is accused of orchestrating a scheme to infiltrate the DEA’s practitioner and physician database, enabling them to order over 300 pints of promethazine with codeine. The men allegedly used stolen physician credentials to create fraudulent accounts with pharmaceutical wholesalers, placing large orders that were shipped to fake doctors’ offices nationwide. The street value of the promethazine is estimated at $750,000.
The defendants now face charges including conspiracy to acquire controlled substances by fraud, 11 counts of wire fraud, and four counts of aggravated identity theft. Despite the breach, the DEA confirmed that no patient data was compromised.
Lil Shine addressed the accusations on social media, proclaiming his innocence. “IM INNOCENT!” he wrote on Instagram Stories. He further elaborated during an Instagram Live session, stating:
“Basically, I’ve been given the opportunity to fight this shit and it could take anywhere from six months to a year… I just want you to know I appreciate all the love. I’m free, though. That federal shit is different, it’s not like a state case but I’m gonna be fighting this shit from outside the walls.”
The rising underground artist shared that he had anticipated the charges, having previously received a target letter from federal authorities. Despite his legal troubles, Shine reassured fans that new music is on the way, announcing a single dropping on Christmas Day and a tape set for release on New Year’s.
This case marks a shocking turn of events for Lil Shine, who has been gaining traction in the underground rap scene. Fans and observers alike await further developments as the legal proceedings unfold.
On this date in 2020, the Hip Hop world lost one of its most revered pioneers with the death of John “Ectasy” Fletcher of the legendary Brooklyn rap trio Whodini, who passed away during the coronavirus pandemic, however, reports stated that was not the cause of his death. Fletcher was 56 years old.
Emerging from Brooklyn’s Albany Projects in the early 1980s, Whodini revolutionized Hip Hop with their innovative blend of rap and R&B, creating a sound that bridged party anthems and introspective storytelling. Comprising co-founders Jalil Hutchins and John “Ecstasy” Fletcher, along with turntablist DJ Drew “Grandmaster Dee” Carter, the group became one of the genre’s earliest commercial successes.
Whodini’s hits such as “Friends,” “Freaks Come Out at Night,” and “One Love” remain timeless classics, celebrated for their catchy hooks, relatable themes, and polished production. Their music often explored universal human experiences, setting them apart in an era dominated by battle raps and party tracks. Their innovative music videos were among the first by a rap group to receive heavy rotation on MTV, expanding Hip Hop’s reach to wider audiences.
John “Ecstasy” Fletcher played a vital role in Whodini’s success. Known for his iconic Zorro-style hat and suave persona, Ecstasy was the voice of smoothness and charisma. His melodic delivery and conversational rap style contrasted beautifully with Jalil’s sharper flow, creating a dynamic that resonated deeply with fans. Fletcher’s contributions extended beyond performance; he helped craft Whodini’s identity as trailblazers who introduced harmony and storytelling into rap.
The group’s contributions paved the way for future artists by showing that Hip Hop could be both commercially viable and artistically innovative. Their influence can be seen in the work of countless artists who followed, and they remain celebrated as one of Hip Hop’s foundational acts. Ecstasy’s legacy continues to inspire, reminding the culture of the power of originality, charisma, and authenticity.
The world of baseball has been rocked by the death of stolen base king and 10X MLB All Star Rickey Henderson, who lost his fight with pneumonia over the weekend. The 65 year old baseball legend played for nine different teams during his Major League career, however, there was no place like home for Henderson, who spent the greater part of his extensive 30-year career with the Oakland A’s. Whether he’s recognized as one of the Top 5 Greatest baseball players of all time by Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. or acknowledged for having more stolen bases by himself than the entire Boston Red Sox franchise had in the history of their team, it is unmistakeable that Henderson was one-of-a-kind on and off the diamond.
Yes, the rumors are true; he used to check into hotels under the assumed, but notable names of James Brown, Luther Vandross and Richard Pryor. It’s also legend that the Yankees once thought there was an oversight of $1 million in their signing budget the year that they signed the undisputed king of stolen bases, but Henderson never cashed the $1 million signing bonus check from the late George Steinbrenner; instead, he framed the check and hung it up on the wall in his home.
Henderson’s 1,406 career stolen bags and 130 SBs in a season still stand as the MLB records to this day. There are several historic moments of iconic sports figures that have not been properly appreciated and the legend of Rickey Henderson isn’t any different. Here at SOURCE SPORTS, we have complied a list of ten accomplishments from the extensive career of Henderson that is arguably unmatched by any other player in the game of baseball.
1. Appeared in Four Decades of Baseball Rickey Henderson’s longevity in Major League Baseball is as legendary as his speed. Over the course of a remarkable 25-year career, Henderson became one of only 27 players in history to appear in games across four decades (1979-2003). This rare feat highlights his adaptability, resilience, and enduring value as a player. From his early years with the Oakland A’s to his final stints with various teams, Henderson’s presence on the field consistently dazzled fans and frustrated opponents. His ability to remain competitive in a physically demanding sport for so long is a testament to his unparalleled work ethic and passion for the game.
Henderson as a rookie in 1979
2. Holds Yankees’ Franchise Record for Leadoff Home Runs Although Rickey Henderson spent just five seasons with the New York Yankees, his impact was monumental. To this day, he holds the Yankees’ franchise record for leadoff home runs. Known for combining speed and power like no one else, Henderson turned the top of the batting order into a threat. Opposing pitchers had to face the daunting challenge of a player who could start a game with a home run or a stolen base, setting the tone for his team. His unforgettable tenure in pinstripes showcased his dynamic skill set and cemented his legacy in Yankees lore.
3. Seven Consecutive Seasons Leading the League in Stolen Bases By 1986, Rickey Henderson had firmly established himself as the king of the stolen base. For seven straight seasons (1980–1986), he led the league in steals, a feat that underscored both his consistency and dominance. No other player of his era came close to matching his speed, instinct, and daring on the basepaths. Henderson didn’t just steal bases; he revolutionized the art of base stealing, turning it into a game-changing weapon. This streak solidified his reputation as one of the greatest base runners in baseball history.
4. Youngest Player to Steal Three Bases in One Game At just 20 years and 241 days old, Rickey Henderson became the youngest player to steal three bases in a single game in his rookie year, a record that stood for an impressive 40 years. Henderson’s remarkable feat showcased his precocious talent and fearless approach to the game. It wasn’t until Juan Soto, at 19 years and 325 days old, broke the record that baseball saw another player emulate such youthful dominance on the basepaths. Henderson’s early exploits were a sign of the legendary career to come, as he redefined base-stealing excellence. Below, he accomplished the same feat again in 2000 at 41 years old against the BoSox.
5. Batted Right, Threw Left – A Rare Combination Rickey Henderson was one of only 57 players in MLB history to bat right-handed while throwing left-handed, a rarity in professional baseball. This unique combination added another layer of intrigue to his already extraordinary career. It’s a reflection of Henderson’s natural athleticism and adaptability, qualities that allowed him to excel not only at the plate but also in the outfield. Whether gunning down runners or driving the ball with authority, Henderson was truly one of the greatest Black baseball players of all time.
6. Broke Babe Ruth’s All-Time Walk Record In 2001, Rickey Henderson surpassed Babe Ruth’s all-time walk record, further cementing his status as one of baseball’s greatest offensive catalysts. Known for his patience and keen eye at the plate, Henderson’s ability to draw walks was a key aspect of his game. His unmatched combination of speed and on-base ability made him a nightmare for pitchers, and breaking Ruth’s record was a fitting milestone for a player who excelled at getting on base and wreaking havoc.
7. 20 Home Runs and 80 Stolen Bases in a Season (Twice) Rickey Henderson is the only player in MLB history to hit 20 home runs and steal 80 bases in a season—twice. This rare combination of power and speed epitomized Henderson’s dynamic playing style. He proved that a player could dominate in multiple facets of the game, making him one of the most versatile threats ever to step onto a baseball diamond. His ability to excel in both power and speed remains a standard few have reached.
8. League Leader in Stolen Bases for 12 Seasons Over the course of his illustrious career, Rickey Henderson led the league in stolen bases for an incredible 12 seasons, a record that speaks to his unmatched consistency and dominance. Whether in his prime or later in his career, Henderson’s speed and base-stealing acumen set him apart. His uncanny ability to read pitchers and execute perfectly timed steals made him a perennial league leader and an invaluable asset to his teams. In the video below, Henderson became the all-time AL stolen base leader with his 893rd swiped bag, surpassing Ty Cobb’s previous American League record.
9. MLB’s Stolen Base Leader at Age 39 Even at 39 years old, Rickey Henderson proved that age was just a number. In 1998, he led the MLB in stolen bases, a feat that highlighted his enduring speed and athleticism. At an age when most players are slowing down or retiring, Henderson remained a top-tier base runner. His achievement at 39 serves as a testament to his extraordinary fitness, preparation, and baseball IQ.
10. Induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame (2009) In 2009, Rickey Henderson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving an overwhelming 94.8% of the vote in his first year of eligibility. The honor recognized his unparalleled contributions to the game, from his all-time stolen base record to his dynamic presence as a leadoff hitter. Henderson’s induction was a crowning achievement in a career filled with milestones, celebrating a player who changed the game with his unique blend of speed, power, and charisma.
Speech given by Rickey Henderson after breaking Lou Brock’s all-time SB record in 1991
On this date in 1960, record exec, rapper, producer, and pioneer Luther Campbell, aka Uncle Luke, was born in Miami, Florida. Luke has morphed into one of the trailblazers of today’s strip club-based Hip Hop that is seen from southern artists such as Future, Kodak Black and even Megan Thee Stallion.
As the one-time leader of the legendary 2 Live Crew, Campbell launched Luke Skyywalker Records, becoming the first Hip Hop mogul in the Dirty South to boast a gold album(The 2 Live Crew Is What We Are). After five group albums and eight solo albums, Campbell ventured into adult films, starred in his own reality show and even made a run for Mayor of Miami in 2011.
Happy birthday to the Liberty City native who became a family man and a definitive part of Hip Hop history!
On this date in 1998, Earl “DMX” Simmons dropped his sophomore release, Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood on the Def Jam/Ruff Ryders imprint. Less than a year following his debut album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, X put out one of his most celebrated releases that shipped gold in its first week and were posted at the top of the charts for almost an entire month following its release.
The project, which was produced by Irv Gotti, Dame Grease and Swizz, debuted at number 1 on Billboard Top 200 just like X’s premier album. This feat was only accomplished once before by Tupac with All Eyez On Me and The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory.
The singles that led the album’s success were the dark, autobiographical “Slippin’” and the Swizz Beatz produced “No Love 4 Me” featuring then Ruff Ryders newcomer Drag-On. The album enjoyed additional success being that this was the project in heavy rotation during DMX’s silver screen debut alongside Nas in Belly.
Thanks to the entire Ruff Ryder team including the Dark Man Unknown himself for this timeless Hip Hop classic!
Bishop T.D. James is taking legal action against misinformation that his attempting to tie him to Diddy’s ongoing legal battle.
The motion was filed by Jakes’s attorney, Dustin Pusch, on Thursday, Dec. 19, requesting a subpoena to YouTube’s parent company, Google, to look into the distribution of what his team dubs misinformation.
According to NBC, the account holders are based in Pakistan, South Africa, the Philippines, and Kenya. The creators are believed to be artificial intelligence, using created images and voiceovers. The lawsuit is the first to combat viral misinformation on the platform.
NBC also sites hundreds of YouTube videos, racking up millions of views that have attempted to tie Jakes to Diddy.
Earlier this month, TD Jakes hopped online to update his health following a Sunday scare at the Potter’s House.
“I told you last Sunday that I’d see you this Sunday, and so here I am,” Jakes said. “I am grateful to God for his goodness and his grace. Many of you don’t realize that you’re looking at a miracle. I faced a life-threatening calamity, was rushed to the ICU unit, I had emergency surgery, survived the surgery. Yeah, I’m back. And the doctor wants me to go slow coming back.”
Jakes was rushed to receive medical attention after experiencing a health incident during a sermon on Sunday, November 24. The 67-year-old preacher was delivering a powerful message to his congregation when he suddenly paused in the middle of his address, appeared to tremble, and then sat still before dropping his microphone. The unsettling moment prompted several congregation members to rush to his side as others began praying or calling out for help. The church’s livestream was abruptly cut off shortly after the incident.
While everyone was on pins and needs, later that evening, The Potter’s House issued a statement reassuring the public about the condition of their senior pastor. “During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hour-long message,” the statement read. “Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical professionals. The entire Potter’s House family is grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community.”
Officially, the church expressed its gratitude, saying, “Thank you for your understanding and continued prayers.”
A Statement From The Potter’s House of Dallas November 24, 2024
During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hour long message. Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical… pic.twitter.com/QupVK29mQd
If you don’t know who Bishop Jakes is, he has been a prominent figure in the Christian community for decades. Ordained as a bishop in 1987, Jakes became widely known for his landmark sermon Woman, Thou Art Loosed in 1992. The following year, he began airing a weekly television broadcast on the Trinity Broadcasting Network, and by 1994, his teachings reached an even broader audience through Black Entertainment Television (BET). Jakes’s influence continued to grow, and in 2001, Time magazine and CNN recognized him as “America’s Best Preacher.”
As for the Potter’s House, Jakes founded the church way back in 1996, is a nondenominational Christian megachurch that serves over 30,000 members. As a nonprofit organization, the church’s mission is to provide spiritual guidance and empowerment to people across the globe. “The Potter’s House and T.D. Jakes Ministries seek to become a global voice, along a lifelong journey of spiritual and economic hope, encouragement, and empowerment to people locally, nationally, and around the world,” according to the church’s official mission statement.
Boosie Badazz wants to resolve his legal issues over Yung Bleu’s contract. Speaking with DJ Vlad, Boosie said he is “hopeful” of a resolution as they are both tired.
“I want Bleu to go in there and say, ‘give him [Boosie] some money and let’s move on,’” Boosie said.
Boosie added he prayed over the issue and stated he doesn’t want to develop any hate in his heart because that’s when he is at his weakest and begin to make bad decisions.
“I don’t want that to be part of my legacy, fighting my artist and brother for money,” Boosie said. “I hope they feel the same way. When you know the situation and how I was done, it shouldn’t be that hard as men – and we dealing with people with multimillions – it’s nothing to say, give Boosie some money.”
This isn’t the first time Boosie has wanted to wrap up this legal battle. Hitting X in April, Boosie tweeted his desire to sidestep court because attorneys and more see it as a payday.
“They want us to keep having to go to court my n—a,” Boosie wrote. “They putting u deeper in the hole by paying for your attorney fees. Why they don’t wanna pay your tab and get this negativity off you? Because they make more money with us beefing my n—a.”
bleuvandross CAN YOU HALLA AT @empire N YALL GET TOGETHER N PAY ME MY MONEY N GET THIS OVER WITH. THEY WANT US TO KEEP HAVING TO GO TO COURT MY NIGGA.THEY PUTTING U DEEPER N THE WHOLE BY PAYING FOR YOUR ATTORNEY FEES . WHY THEY DONT WANNA PAY YOUR TAB N GET THIS NEGATIVITY OFF…
Back in September 2023, Boosie Badazz was without an Instagram account. The controversial rapper’s account was disabled, and he believed it was due to his beef with Yung Bleu.
Boosie’s most recent page was @mamaheliveagain2.0, but now it’s gone. Hitting Instagram on his newest account, Boosie blamed Bleu.
“Yung Bleu got my Instagram took,” Boosie said. “Him and TQ the cable guy, they got my Instagram took.”
The accusations toward Yung Bleu come after a lengthy back and forth. Boosie beleives Bleu and his brother TQ forged the Louisiana legend’s signature on paperwork for an EMPIRE deal.
Young Noble of the Outlawz has revisited the tense confrontation with Diddy that took place after Tupac Shakur’s murder. In an interview with The Art of Dialogue, Noble recalled the events surrounding MTV’s 20th anniversary show in 2001, where emotions ran high during a rehearsal for a tribute to Tupac.
“Puffy was trying to engage with us, but we didn’t want to talk to him. He ended up having a conversation with Big Sike from Thug Life,” Noble recounted. “We had nothing to say; we weren’t interested in speaking to him.”
Things escalated when the situation turned physical. “Puffy was nearing the end of the song when Mu (Napoleon) walked up and grabbed the mic. The song had finished, and it was our time to take over. Puff seemed to take offense, saying, ‘Hold on, playboy!’”
Noble described the chaos that ensued, saying, “Next thing you know, security and all these guys jumped on stage. We thought, ‘Here we go again.’ It turned into a bit of a melee, and ultimately, we were escorted out and unable to perform.”
In a separate discussion during the same interview, Young Noble also shared his experience of visiting Tupac in the hospital after he was shot in September 1996. “I was right there, front and center. People still say he’s alive, hiding out like Bin Laden or in Cuba, but no, he really passed away,” he emphasized.
Jay-Z is embroiled in yet another legal battle, this time stemming from a paternity lawsuit filed by Rymir Satterthwaite, who claims to be the rapper’s 31-year-old “illegitimate son.” According to MailOnline, Satterthwaite, along with his late mother Wanda and his guardian Dr. Lillie Coley, has brought the case forward, alleging fraudulent actions by Jay-Z during prior paternity tests. The plaintiffs argue that their legal “rights were violated through fraudulent court actions,” citing instances of “sealed records, wrongful sanctions, and obstruction of their legal proceedings.”
This paternity dispute is only one of several legal issues currently surrounding the hip-hop mogul. In a separate case, a woman recently amended a prior lawsuit against Diddy to include allegations that Jay-Z also assaulted her at a party in 2000 when she was just 13 years old. Both Jay-Z and Diddy have denied these accusations.
Adding to the legal troubles, attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the woman in the assault case, has filed a new lawsuit against Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. Buzbee accuses the company of violating various state laws, including “barratry and impersonation of a public official.” In a statement released Wednesday, Buzbee declared, “LET ME BE CLEAR: we will not be bullied or intimidated.”
Jay-Z has not publicly commented on the latest allegations or lawsuits.
Lil Durk has reportedly broken several regulations while incarcerated at a California jail as he awaits trial for his alleged involvement in a murder-for-hire scheme.
According to a report by Law & Crime published on Tuesday (December 17), court documents reveal new details about why the Chicago rapper was denied bond. Prosecutors argued that Durk’s behavior demonstrates a “pattern of criminal activity and interference,” including violating Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) rules in Los Angeles.
One notable allegation is that Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, repeatedly made three-way calls, despite explicit instructions against such actions. “Despite clear instructions to not engage in three-way calls, defendant repeatedly abused the phone system at MDC to engage in such conduct,” the prosecution wrote in a recently published brief. At a hearing on December 12, the judge sided with the prosecution and denied Durk’s bond request.
The legal troubles don’t stop there. Prosecutors have also linked the rapper to the 2022 murder of Stephon Mack, alleged leader of the Smashville faction of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago. While this case is separate from the current murder-for-hire charges, the allegations suggest a pattern of retaliatory violence tied to Durk.
According to newly unsealed court documents, Mack’s death was supposedly retribution for the 2021 murder of Durk’s brother, Dontay “DThang” Banks, who was fatally shot outside a nightclub in Harvey, Illinois. Prosecutors allege that Durk actively sought revenge. “Lil Durk was and still is offering money for people to kill those responsible for his brother’s murder, and more specifically, offering to pay money for any Gangster Disciple that is killed,” a federal agent stated in the April 2023 filing, which was unsealed on December 11.
While Durk has not been charged in Mack’s murder, the investigation remains ongoing. Two other men, Anthony Montgomery-Wilson and Preston Powell, were charged earlier this year with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire in connection to Mack’s death. Investigators reportedly uncovered text messages on Montgomery-Wilson’s phone discussing a payment allegedly tied to Durk. One message asked: “Did Durk gave (sic) u that money.”
Lil Durk’s murder-for-hire trial is scheduled to begin on January 7.
