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Infamous Sylvia is back on the scene, providing all the juicy details of Day 7 at the YSL RICO trial. With the trial reaching its peak, the proceedings took a dramatic turn as Officer Stephen McKesey’s testimony provided potentially damning evidence against Young Thug’s brother Quantavious Grier. 

Officer McKesey’s Testimony

As the trial continues at the Fulton County Courthouse, Officer Stephen McKesey took the stand, bringing forth a crucial incident from 2020 involving Quantavious Grier, the brother of rapper Young Thug. 

McKesey’s testimony began with a contentious atmosphere, as Judge Glanville exhibited a strict approach towards the defense attorneys. The judge’s sustained objections led to speculation about potential favoritism towards the prosecution. 

Nonetheless, the spotlight was firmly on Officer McKesey, who recounted an incident involving Grier from his off-duty hours in 2020 involving Grier. During his testimony, McKesey revealed that he had spotted Grier at the Fulton County Courthouse on the day of his appearance. 

Wrong Guy?

When defense attorney Huey questioned McKesey about Grier’s presence in the courtroom, the officer admitted to seeing him earlier in the morning but claimed not to see him at that moment. 

Interestingly, McKesey also pointed out a resemblance between Grier and one of the young Black men sitting in court, emphasizing their physical similarities, which brought upon a potentially racist and prejudice outlook to most viewers, leaving them to question whether or not these racist remarks are made on purpose for a “mistrial.”

What Happened At The Gas Station?

McKesey then proceeded to describe the incident that prompted his intervention. While off-duty, he observed an altercation involving Grier and another individual at a gas station. Concerned, McKesey stepped in as he noticed blood on one of the individuals’ shirts and assumed a scuffle had taken place. 

Additionally, he noted that Grier was wearing a red sweatshirt and saw a gun in Grier’s car. Surprisingly, these crucial details were absent from McKesey’s original police report. The officer also failed to mention any gang activity or affiliation in his report. As the trial unfolded, Grier found himself arrested that night on charges of possessing a stolen firearm.

What To Expect This Evening On Day 7 

Meanwhile, Young Thug made a stylish appearance in the courtroom, dressed in an all-cream ensemble. His girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist, was absent during the morning session but is expected to attend the evening phase, where four more witnesses are anticipated to testify.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (12/6/23 at 3:50 pm)

YSL RICO Trial Day 6: 4 New Witnesses Take The Stand

Day 6 of the YSL RICO trial was marked by the testimonies of four new witnesses at the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta. Assistant Prosecutor Simone Hilton stepped in for Prosecutor Adriane Love, while Young Thug demonstrated affection towards his loved ones in the courtroom. As the state tries to build its case, questions about its preparedness linger. Here is a recap of the day’s events.

The 4 New Testimonies 

The day began with the presence of Infamous Sylvia, covering the trial that has captivated the attention of many. 

Hilton, the assistant to Prosecutor Love, wielded her expertise to conduct witness examinations in Love’s absence. Throughout the day, four witnesses,  including three officers and a representative from the forensics department, took the stand to share their testimonies.

One of the officers provided insights into the K9 unit, highlighting the dog’s certification and its role at the crime scene. Meanwhile, Sylvia recalled the involvement of an ex-defendant, BB, who was initially one of the defendants in the case before taking a plea deal due to complications with his attorney. 

Currently serving time in jail for a separate crime, BB hopes to receive a positive review from the parole board after serving at least 85% of his sentence. Another significant case that involved the ex-defendant was surveilled with marijuana in a 2015 case. 

Young Thug Has A Soft Side 

This incident coincided with the involvement of the K9 unit, and the evidence was even captured on Instagram Live. A locked car containing 17 ounces of marijuana, drugs, and paraphernalia was discovered during the surveillance.

As the trial progressed, Young Thug, or Jeffery Williams, was seen in court interacting with his loved ones. Despite his mother’s absence on this particular day, his father and Mariah The Scientist were by his side. 

Williams and Mariah complemented each other’s attire, with Mariah donning a vested pinstripe suit and clear heels. Affectionate gestures, including eyewinks, whispers of “I love you,” and air kisses, were exchanged between Williams, his mother, and Mariah.

Upcoming Evening Updates

The upcoming evening sessions are expected to display footage of the body camera footage from the night Williams was arrested, adding to the intrigue surrounding the trial. While the state continues to face questions about its level of preparedness, the case moves forward with more witness statements expected from additional officers.

Updated by Kynedi Hobbs on August 5th 2023

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YSL RICO Trial Day 5: Young Thug’s Fashion Statement Takes Center Stage

On Day 5 of the YSL RICO trial, the defense scored a win as they crushed the prosecution’s witnesses in cross-examination. However, it was Young Thug’s fashion choice that stole the spotlight.

Head Wolf In Charge 

Young Thug, real name Jeffery Williams, appeared in good spirits on Monday, Dec. 5, as he sat with his legal team on Day 5 of the YSL RICO trial. 

The incarcerated rapper, who revealed a new acronym for his name in Week 1, wore a luxurious $1,200 chocolate brown Dior sweater with a wolf image on the front. Fans speculated that he was subtly trolling the State Prosecutor, who had referred to him as the “leader of the wolf pack” in her opening statements.  

Mariah Sits Pretty In An Ugly Situation 

Mariah the Scientist, Young Thug’s girlfriend, again sat for the courtroom hearing.  Always giving fashion looks, she wore a $2,000 pair of brown leather D2Squared Skate Moss shoes with her hair pulled back into a ponytail and a black velvet bow.  

The To Be Eaten Alive artist told SOHH reporter Infamous Sylvia exclusively that she picks out the court looks for Young Thug and that the brown wolf sweater, though a subliminal shot, was purely coincidental.

Defense Crushes Police Witnesses

Three police officers and a crime scene tech were called to testify, but it was Sgt Charles Ross who drew attention with his “cocky” demeanor and eye-rolling as he left the stand. 

The state presented evidence of a 2013 carjacking crime committed by Trontavious Stephens, a separate defendant in the RICO case. Stephens was found with marijuana and a stolen car containing a gun and distribution paraphernalia, leading to felony charges.

While the jury seemed bored at times, the defense team was relentless in their cross-examination of the state’s witnesses.

Defense Doubles Down

In a calculated defense strategy, attorneys for the defense aggressively rebutted and questioned the police witnesses, exposing flaws in their testimonies and highlighting the absence of gang-related records for the 2013 crime. 

The defense’s tag team approach, featuring attorneys from multiple co-defendants, effectively crushed the state’s witnesses in cross-examination.

Court watchers have raised concerns about the leniency shown to the state prosecution by Judge Glanville. Despite multiple instances of unpreparedness, the judge has not reprimanded the state. As the trial progresses, five additional police officers are slated to testify the following day, which promises further drama and intense legal battles.

Week 1 Recap

The YSL RICO trial had a rough start last week with live testimony from the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta. Young Thug was seated in the courtroom with his lawyers, co-defendants, and supporters. 

A pic of his girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist, went viral as the songstress made fashionable appearances each day, including a twinning moment with her boo on Day 3.  Moreover, Judge Glanville deflected several mistrial motions as the prosecution struggled through opening statements and an eyebrow-raising “jungle” analogy. 

Defense attorneys captivated the mostly female jury with a poverty narrative explaining the rough life growing up for the six men on “Bleveland Avenue” in Atlanta. State witnesses included a “gang expert” who decoded hand symbols and a former strip club “house mother.”

Week 1 Recap: ‘Truly Humble Under God’

Contrary to popular belief, Steel announced that name was an acronym for “Truly Humble Under God,” showcasing a new perspective on his artist persona. Further testimonies shed light on the relationship between Young Thug and his co-defendants. 

Steel, who testified for almost two hours, sought to distinguish and sever the rappers’ connection to the crimes of his co-defendants. He explained that, though they all came from the same area, Thug didn’t “know” the defendants.

Casanova Swallows A Tough Pill

Other rappers in legal trouble for racketeering include Casanova who faced a setback in pursuing freedom as a federal court ruling rejected his plea for compassionate release. Despite expressing remorse and distancing himself from the gang, the Brooklyn rapper’s quest for an early prison release remains unsuccessful, prolonging his sentence.

The post YSL RICO Trial Day 7: Off-Duty Officer Reveals Damning Testimony Against Young Thug’s Brother appeared first on SOHH.com.

On Day 5 of the YSL RICO trial, the defense scored a win as they crushed the prosecution’s witnesses in cross-examination. However, it was Young Thug’s fashion choice that stole the spotlight.

Head Wolf In Charge 

Young Thug, real name Jeffery Williams, appeared in good spirits on Monday, Dec. 5, as he sat with his legal team on Day 5 of the YSL RICO trial. 

The incarcerated rapper, who revealed a new acronym for his name in Week 1, wore a luxurious $1,200 chocolate brown Dior sweater with a wolf image on the front. Fans speculated that he was subtly trolling the State Prosecutor, who had referred to him as the “leader of the wolf pack” in her opening statements.  

Mariah Sits Pretty In An Ugly Situation 

Mariah the Scientist, Young Thug’s girlfriend, again sat for the courtroom hearing.  Always giving fashion looks, she wore a $2,000 pair of brown leather D2Squared Skate Moss shoes with her hair pulled back into a ponytail and a black velvet bow.  

The To Be Eaten Alive artist told SOHH reporter Infamous Sylvia exclusively that she picks out the court looks for Young Thug and that the brown wolf sweater, though a subliminal shot, was purely coincidental.

Defense Crushes Police Witnesses

Three police officers and a crime scene tech were called to testify, but it was Sgt Charles Ross who drew attention with his “cocky” demeanor and eye-rolling as he left the stand. 

The state presented evidence of a 2013 carjacking crime committed by Trontavious Stephens, a separate defendant in the RICO case. Stephens was found with marijuana and a stolen car containing a gun and distribution paraphernalia, leading to felony charges.

While the jury seemed bored at times, the defense team was relentless in their cross-examination of the state’s witnesses.

Defense Doubles Down

In a calculated defense strategy, attorneys for the defense aggressively rebutted and questioned the police witnesses, exposing flaws in their testimonies and highlighting the absence of gang-related records for the 2013 crime. 

The defense’s tag team approach, featuring attorneys from multiple co-defendants, effectively crushed the state’s witnesses in cross-examination.

Court watchers have raised concerns about the leniency shown to the state prosecution by Judge Glanville. Despite multiple instances of unpreparedness, the judge has not reprimanded the state. As the trial progresses, five additional police officers are slated to testify the following day, which promises further drama and intense legal battles.

Week 1 Recap

The YSL RICO trial had a rough start last week with live testimony from the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta. Young Thug was seated in the courtroom with his lawyers, co-defendants, and supporters. 

A pic of his girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist, went viral as the songstress made fashionable appearances each day, including a twinning moment with her boo on Day 3.  Moreover, Judge Glanville deflected several mistrial motions as the prosecution struggled through opening statements and an eyebrow-raising “jungle” analogy. 

Defense attorneys captivated the mostly female jury with a poverty narrative explaining the rough life growing up for the six men on “Bleveland Avenue” in Atlanta. State witnesses included a “gang expert” who decoded hand symbols and a former strip club “house mother.”

Week 1 Recap: ‘Truly Humble Under God’

Contrary to popular belief, Steel announced that name was an acronym for “Truly Humble Under God,” showcasing a new perspective on his artist persona. Further testimonies shed light on the relationship between Young Thug and his co-defendants. 

Steel, who testified for almost two hours, sought to distinguish and sever the rappers’ connection to the crimes of his co-defendants. He explained that, though they all came from the same area, Thug didn’t “know” the defendants.

Casanova Swallows A Tough Pill

Other rappers in legal trouble for racketeering include Casanova who faced a setback in pursuing freedom as a federal court ruling rejected his plea for compassionate release. Despite expressing remorse and distancing himself from the gang, the Brooklyn rapper’s quest for an early prison release remains unsuccessful, prolonging his sentence.

The post YSL RICO Trial Day 6: 4 New Witnesses Take The Stand appeared first on SOHH.com.

In a dramatic turn of events, the YSL RICO trial, involving Atlanta rapper Young Thug, continues with its fourth day, as a new person of interest is unveiled. Meanwhile, concerns over jury privacy have emerged after a media mishap. 

Media Mishap

With Infamous Sylvia on the lookout, the trial commenced on Thursday, Nov. 30, with the Judge addressing an incident from the previous day when a media pool camera inadvertently displayed images of two jurors. 

Prosecutors expressed worries about potential screenshots circulating on the internet and the potential for unwanted contact with the jurors’ friends and family. Consequently, the Judge ordered the trial to proceed without further attention to the mishap.

2 New Witnesses To The Stand 

Thus far, two witnesses have taken the stand, with a mysterious third witness yet to be revealed. 

The first witness, an unnamed woman previously employed as a “House Mother” at the adult entertainment club Pink Pony in Brookhaven, GA, recounted a harrowing incident from 2013. She described how she was rear-ended and subsequently robbed of her vehicle by a young man. 

Trontavious Stephens, a suspected gang member who is not among the six defendants, emerged as a person of interest in this case.

The second witness called was Captain Pettis of the Atlanta Police Department. He admitted to failing to include in the police report that Stephens was a suspected gang member. Additionally, Captain Pettis neglected to report the specific gang signs he witnessed at the time. 

New Person Of Interest

As the jury hears further testimonies in the high-profile YSL Trial, it is becoming apparent that the case extends beyond the initial six defendants. The involvement of Trontavious Stephens, a suspected gang member, adds a new layer of intrigue and demands a closer examination of potential links to organized crime.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/30/23 at 4:30 pm)

YSL RICO Trial Day 3: First State Witness Decodes Gang Secrets

Infamous Sylvia is back for day three of the YSL Trial involving rapper Young Thug at the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta. The trial took an intriguing turn as Atlanta Police Department Gang Expert and the first State Witness, Mark Belknap, took the stand

Decoding The Code 

On Nov. 29, Mark Belknap took the stand in which he built the credibility of his expertise. Mark attended the National Gang Conference in California and completed Post-Certified Police Officer Standard training. 

Belknap began by explaining the significance of the “Gang Triangle,” which comprises “Gang,” “Person,” and “Crime.” This triangular interaction helps decode and understand the dynamics of gang-related activities. By shedding light on this concept, Belknap aimed to equip the jury with the tools necessary to interpret evidence and testimonies throughout the trial.

Furthermore, Belknap delved into the world of gang jargon, unraveling its complexities and hidden meanings. For instance, he revealed that “Bleveland,” refers to “Cleveland St.,” in the rapper Young Thug’s hometown.

However, due to his alleged affiliation with the Blood gang, it is common knowledge in gang culture to replace the letter “C” with “B.” Similarly, Belknap drew parallels to Crip members who substitute ‘C’ in words beginning with the letter “B.”. The clarity provided by Belknap’s explanation of gang jargon helps to bridge understanding between the courtroom and the wider public.

Differentiating Different Gang Types

Beyond decoding specific terminology, Belknap also elucidated the differences between traditional and hybrid gangs. 

Traditional gangs, such as the Bloods and the Crips organizations, have strict structures, protocols, and policies in place. On the other hand, hybrid gangs operate more casually and lack the same level of structure and organization. 

Belknap highlighted that non-traditional gangs, like the one being examined in the YSL trial, often have a higher turnover rate, attracting younger members who may have different reasons for joining than traditional gang members.

His Slime 

The day’s proceedings caught the attention of onlookers as Mariah The Scientist and Young Thug donned matching green outfits. This fashion choice could be interpreted as a nod to Young Thug’s iconic slang, “slime,” which is widely recognized in his music and associated with the YSL music label.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/29/23 at 3:30 pm)

YSL RICO Trial Day 2: The True Meaning of Young Thug’s Name

The YSL RICO trial has resumed, revealing more intimate details about the life of Young Thug. Attorney Brian Steel provided an in-depth look into the Atlanta rap artist’s upbringing, emphasizing his musical inspirations and challenging the perception of his involvement in criminal activities. 

Steel Opens The Floor

On Tuesday, Nov. 28,  the YSL RICO trial officially resumed with embedded reporter Infamous Sylvia providing SOHH a first-hand account of the courtroom action. 

Attorney Brian Steel spent over two hours in his opening statements detailing the challenging upbringing Jefferey “Young Thug” Williams’ faced in one of Atlanta’s poorest neighborhoods. Steel’s opening statement captivated the audience, vividly depicting Young Thug’s childhood growing up on Cleveland Avenue in Atlanta. Williams faced bullying, poverty, and adversity in his household alongside six sisters and two brothers.

As Williams watched just steps away, Steel testified of how music was the only path to escape from the dire circumstances. Thug drew inspiration from rap legends Lil Wayne and Tupac. Steel strategically aimed to connect with the jury, composed primarily of middle-aged black women, who may have a shared family history.

Young Thug’s Surprising Acronym

One notable revelation during the trial was Williams’ explanation of the origins of the name “Thug.” 

Contrary to popular belief, Steel announced that name was an acronym for “Truly Humble Under God,” showcasing a new perspective on his artist persona.

Throughout the proceedings, Young Thug was described by Infamous Sylvia as an attentive and engaged presence in the courtroom.  He listened intently, nodding in agreement as Steel shared his story and otherwise passive, much like he did on the previous trial date.

Friend or Foe?

Further testimonies shed light on the relationship between Young Thug and his co-defendants. Steel, who testified for almost two hours, sought to distinguish and sever the rappers’ connection to the crimes of his co-defendants. He explained that, though they all came from the same area, Thug doesn’t “know” the defendants.

This was confirmed in a prior interview between Infamous Sylvia and the father of defendant Rodalius Ryan. His father confirmed during the interview that his son admired Young Thug solely for his music and had no personal association with him.

However, the rapper’s connection with co-defendant Shannon Stillwell was evident through a mention of his name in a song with rapper Wunnie Lee, where lyrics state their affiliation with each other. The lyrics state: 

“ Where you from? Im from Bleveland. Throw your set up (YSL!)… the opps hate the crew we gettin’ this paper and we duckin’ cases… Free Lil Shannon he the one that had them runnin’ with that cannon.”

– Where You From? by Slime Life Shawty

Young Thug’s System Of Support

Support for Young Thug came in the form of his family, including his mother and girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. It remains unclear whether Kevin Liles, who spoke favorably of Thug’s character during Monday’s hearing, attended the trial on this day.

The trial took an unexpected turn when the prosecuting attorney, Adriane Love, motioned for a mistrial after Steel presented Instagram page screenshots as evidence. The outcome of this motion is yet to be determined.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/28/23 at 5:57 pm)

YSL Trial Day 1: Young Thug Slammed As The “Leader of the Wolf Pack”

Young Thug and five co-defendants faced opening statements in the YSL RICO trial on Monday, Nov. 27. In an eyebrow-raising moment, the state prosecutor referred to YSL members as animals, calling Thug “the leader of the wolfpack.”  

YSL RICO Trial Day 1

Jeffrey “Young Thug” Williams, his five co-defendants, Judge Glanville, and a diverse jury were empaneled on Day 1 of what is expected to be a high-stakes courtroom showdown. Infamous Sylvia, who has covered the courtroom action since proceedings began, provided first-hand accounts to SOHH.

The families of the accused were in attendance, along with record executive Kevin Liles, and Thug’s girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. The “Spread Thin” singer has shown support throughout the YSL case since Thugger was initially indicted on RICO charges. She has publicly worn “Free Thugger” T-shirts at her concerts and broadcast displays that state “Free YSL.” 

Kevin Liles testified to Young Thug’s character during early hearings, telling the court “I’m willing to back him personally and professionally.” He spoke to Infamous Sylvia about the racial biases present in the state’s prosecution. Comparing the treatment of rap artists with that of rock artists, he said “If this were rockstars on trial, we wouldn’t be here.”

‘The Jungle Book’

The prosecution aimed to paint the narrative that YSL is a criminal organization, with Young Thug as its leader. The state has prepared a case with song lyrics as evidence along with testimony by over 200 witnesses.

State prosecutor Adriane Love opened with a shaky start. Defense attorneys immediately pointed out misleading and inaccurate information in her presentation.

The defense also raised complaints about the prosecution’s failure to submit required documents for the opening statements. This led to a motion for a mistrial which the judge denied. The prosecution was given additional time to submit the documents, causing a delay in the proceedings.

In an inflammatory moment in her presentation, Love referred to Young Thug as “the leader of the wolf pack,” seeking to tie him to various crimes allegedly committed by YSL members. Young Thug, visibly offended, maintained a stoic demeanor as Love made a derogatory reference to Disney’s The Jungle Book.

Shannon Stillwell’s Crimes of Poverty

Maxwell Shardt, Esq. the attorney for defendant Shannon Stillwell, presented his opening statements in the afternoon on Day 1. He defended Stillwell, who was accused of murdering a rival. Shardt suggested that witnesses who testified against Stillwell were felons motivated to have their own sentences reduced.

Shardt admitted that Stillwell was guilty of selling drugs but that he was not a murderer. He painted the picture of Stillwell as a victim who grew up in poverty who was forced into a lifestyle of crime to survive.

Young Thug & Five Co-Defendants

Among the co-defendants, Rodalius Ryan’s case is being reviewed by an appeals court, where a witness has disputed his involvement with YSL. Marquavius Huey has been charged with theft, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm, and other criminal activities. 

Diamonte Kendrick, known as Yak Gotti, faces pending murder charges while already serving time for a separate case. Shannon Stillwell, considered a “top commander” for YSL, is also being charged with murders. Quantavious Nichols, charged with murder as well, allegedly participated in a shooting alongside Stillwell.

Young Thug is charged with leading the alleged criminal organization. The prosecution intends to present song lyrics as evidence to support their claims that he is the head of the racketeering group.

A Timeline Of The YSL Legal Proceedings 

Judge Glanville said he would allow the lyrics to be used “conditionally” after prosecutors argued a motion on Nov. 8, in the Fulton County Courtroom. Prosecutors argued that lyrical evidence would prove that YSL is an organized criminal enterprise engaged in violent crime with Young Thug at the helm. 

Prosecutors presented a deck containing seventeen (17) song lyrics referencing acts of violence, criminal activities, and allegiance to their crew. 

Rap Lyrics For Conviction?

Songs like “BAD BOYS,” featuring Juice WRLD and Young Thug are being used as lyrical evidence against YSL to show the nature of the activities of the criminal enterprise. Lyrics are also being presented to imply Young Thug’s involvement as the leader. In the song “Who” with Future and Young Thug, he raps:

“I’m at the top with bro though. Ooh, head honcho, hold up, kick in your mom door, shoot with the .44.” 

These lyrics potentially implicate Young Thug as the leader of the alleged “YSL Gang” and suggest a willingness to engage in violent acts.

Gunna Released After Indictment

Young Thug has been imprisoned since May 2022 when he and fellow rapper Gunna were two of 28 people indicted in Georgia on conspiracy to violate the RICO Act.  

The YSL members were named in a RICO indictment for murder, assault, robbery, and more. According to media reports, locals say the crackdown was a long time coming.

In August 2022, District Attorney Fanni Wllis, who was presiding over Young Thug and Gunna’s case, stated her intention to use lyrics in their criminal case. Gunna finally went home after being released from Fulton County Jail on Dec. 14. His sentence was commuted to time served following his guilty plea in the RICO case.

Over the following fifteen months, 22 defendants would be released or plead out of the case.

YNW Melly’s Retrial

In a separate case, rapper YNW Melly’s retrial in a double murder case has been pushed to February 2024. This comes after a request from prosecutors, delaying the opening arguments.

The post YSL RICO Trial Day 4: New Person of Interest Emerges As Jury Privacy Concerns Arise appeared first on SOHH.com.

Infamous Sylvia is back for day three of the YSL Trial involving rapper Young Thug at the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta. The trial took an intriguing turn as Atlanta Police Department Gang Expert and the first State Witness, Mark Belknap, took the stand

Decoding The Code 

On Nov. 29, Mark Belknap took the stand in which he built the credibility of his expertise. Mark attended the National Gang Conference in California and completed Post-Certified Police Officer Standard training. 

Belknap began by explaining the significance of the Gang Triangle, which comprises “Gang,” “Person,” and “Crime.” This triangular interaction helps decode and understand the dynamics of gang-related activities. By shedding light on this concept, Belknap aimed to equip the jury with the tools necessary to interpret evidence and testimonies throughout the trial.

Furthermore, Belknap delved into the world of gang jargon, unraveling its complexities and hidden meanings. For instance, he revealed that “Bleveland,” refers to “Cleveland St.,” in the rapper Young Thug’s hometown.

However, due to his alleged affiliation with the Blood gang, it is common knowledge in gang culture to replace the letter ‘C’ with ‘B.’ Similarly, Belknap drew parallels to Crip members who substitute ‘C’ in words beginning with the letter “B.”. The clarity provided by Belknap’s explanation of gang jargon helps to bridge understanding between the courtroom and the wider public.

Differentiating Different Gang Types

Beyond decoding specific terminology, Belknap also elucidated the differences between traditional and hybrid gangs. 

Traditional gangs, such as the Bloods and the Crips organizations, have strict structures, protocols, and policies in place. On the other hand, hybrid gangs operate more casually and lack the same level of structure and organization. 

Belknap highlighted that non-traditional gangs, like the one being examined in the YSL trial, often have a higher turnover rate, attracting younger members who may have different reasons for joining than traditional gang members.

His Slime 

The day’s proceedings caught the attention of onlookers as Mariah The Scientist and Young Thug donned matching green outfits. This fashion choice could be interpreted as a nod to Young Thug’s iconic slang, “slime,” which is widely recognized in his music and associated with the YSL music label.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/29/23 at 3:30 pm)

YSL RICO Trial Day 2: The True Meaning of Young Thug’s Name

The YSL RICO trial has resumed, revealing more intimate details about the life of Young Thug. Attorney Brian Steel provided an in-depth look into the Atlanta rap artist’s upbringing, emphasizing his musical inspirations and challenging the perception of his involvement in criminal activities. 

Steel Opens The Floor

On Tuesday, Nov. 28,  the YSL RICO trial officially resumed with embedded reporter Infamous Sylvia providing SOHH a first-hand account of the courtroom action. 

Attorney Brian Steel spent over two hours in his opening statements detailing the challenging upbringing Jefferey “Young Thug” Williams’ faced in one of Atlanta’s poorest neighborhoods. Steel’s opening statement captivated the audience, vividly depicting Young Thug’s childhood growing up on Cleveland Avenue in Atlanta. Williams faced bullying, poverty and adversity in his household alongside six sisters and two brothers.

As Williams watched just steps away, Steel testified of how music was the only path to escape from the dire circumstances. Thug drew inspiration from rap legends Lil Wayne and Tupac. Steel strategically aimed to connect with the jury, composed primarily of middle-aged black women, who may have a shared family history.

Young Thug’s Surprising Acronym

One notable revelation during the trial was Williams’ explanation of the origins of the name “Thug.” 

Contrary to popular belief, Steel announced that name was an acronym for “Truly Humble Under God,” showcasing a new perspective on his artist persona.

Throughout the proceedings, Young Thug was described by Infamous Sylvia as an attentive and engaged presence in the courtroom.  He listened intently, nodding in agreement as Steel shared his story and otherwise passive, much like he did on the previous trial date.

Friend or Foe?

Further testimonies shed light on the relationship between Young Thug and his co-defendants. Steel, who testified for almost two hours, sought to distinguish and sever the rappers connection to the crimes of his co-defendants. He explained that, though they all came from the same area, Thug doesn’t “know” the defendants.

This was confirmed in a prior interview between Infamous Sylvia and the father of defendant Rodalius Ryan. His father confirmed during the interview that his son admired Young Thug solely for his music and had no personal association with him.

However, the rapper’s connection with co-defendant Shannon Stillwell was evident through a mention of his name in a song with rapper Wunnie Lee, where lyrics state their affiliation with each other. The lyrics state: 

“ Where you from? Im from Bleveland. Throw your set up (YSL!)… the opps hate the crew we gettin’ this paper and we duckin’ cases… Free Lil Shannon he the one that had them runnin’ with that cannon.”

– Where You From? by Slime Life Shawty

Young Thug’s System Of Support

Support for Young Thug came in the form of his family, including his mother and girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. It remains unclear whether Kevin Liles, who spoke favorably of Thug’s character during Monday’s hearing, attended the trial on this day.

The trial took an unexpected turn when the prosecuting attorney, Adriane Love, motioned for a mistrial after Steel presented Instagram page screenshots as evidence. The outcome of this motion is yet to be determined.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/28/23 at 5:57 pm)

YSL Trial Day 1: Young Thug Slammed As The “Leader of the Wolf Pack”

Young Thug and five co-defendants faced opening statements in the YSL RICO trial on Monday, Nov. 27. In an eyebrow-raising moment, the state prosecutor referred to YSL members as animals, calling Thug “the leader of the wolfpack.”  

YSL RICO Trial Day 1

Jeffrey “Young Thug” Williams, his five co-defendants, Judge Glanville, and a diverse jury were empaneled on Day 1 of what is expected to be a high-stakes courtroom showdown. Infamous Sylvia, who has covered the courtroom action since proceedings began, provided first-hand accounts to SOHH.

The families of the accused were in attendance, along with record executive Kevin Liles, and Thug’s girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. The “Spread Thin” singer has shown support throughout the YSL case since Thugger was initially indicted on RICO charges. She has publicly worn “Free Thugger” T-shirts at her concerts and broadcast displays that state “Free YSL.” 

Kevin Liles testified to Young Thug’s character during early hearings, telling the court “I’m willing to back him personally and professionally.” He spoke to Infamous Sylvia about the racial biases present in the state’s prosecution. Comparing the treatment of rap artists with that of rock artists, he said “If this were rockstars on trial, we wouldn’t be here.”

‘The Jungle Book’

The prosecution aimed to paint the narrative that YSL is a criminal organization, with Young Thug as its leader. The state has prepared a case with song lyrics as evidence along with testimony by over 200 witnesses.

State prosecutor Adriane Love opened with a shaky start. Defense attorneys immediately pointed out misleading and inaccurate information in her presentation.

The defense also raised complaints about the prosecution’s failure to submit required documents for the opening statements. This led to a motion for a mistrial which the judge denied. The prosecution was given additional time to submit the documents, causing a delay in the proceedings.

In an inflammatory moment in her presentation, Love referred to Young Thug as “the leader of the wolf pack,” seeking to tie him to various crimes allegedly committed by YSL members. Young Thug, visibly offended, maintained a stoic demeanor as Love made a derogatory reference to Disney’s The Jungle Book.

Shannon Stillwell’s Crimes of Poverty

Maxwell Shardt, Esq. the attorney for defendant Shannon Stillwell, presented his opening statements in the afternoon on Day 1. He defended Stillwell, who was accused of murdering a rival. Shardt suggested that witnesses who testified against Stillwell were felons motivated to have their own sentences reduced.

Shardt admitted that Stillwell was guilty of selling drugs but that he was not a murderer. He painted the picture of Stillwell as a victim who grew up in poverty who was forced into a lifestyle of crime to survive.

Young Thug & Five Co-Defendants

Among the co-defendants, Rodalius Ryan’s case is being reviewed by an appeals court, where a witness has disputed his involvement with YSL. Marquavius Huey has been charged with theft, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm, and other criminal activities. 

Diamonte Kendrick, known as Yak Gotti, faces pending murder charges while already serving time for a separate case. Shannon Stillwell, considered a “top commander” for YSL, is also being charged with murders. Quantavious Nichols, charged with murder as well, allegedly participated in a shooting alongside Stillwell.

Young Thug is charged with leading the alleged criminal organization. The prosecution intends to present song lyrics as evidence to support their claims that he is the head of the racketeering group.

A Timeline Of The YSL Legal Proceedings 

Judge Glanville said he would allow the lyrics to be used “conditionally” after prosecutors argued a motion on Nov. 8, in the Fulton County Courtroom. Prosecutors argued that lyrical evidence would prove that YSL is an organized criminal enterprise engaged in violent crime with Young Thug at the helm. 

Prosecutors presented a deck containing seventeen (17) song lyrics referencing acts of violence, criminal activities, and allegiance to their crew. 

Rap Lyrics For Conviction?

Songs like “BAD BOYS,” featuring Juice WRLD and Young Thug are being used as lyrical evidence against YSL to show the nature of the activities of the criminal enterprise. Lyrics are also being presented to imply Young Thug’s involvement as the leader. In the song “Who” with Future and Young Thug, he raps:

“I’m at the top with bro though. Ooh, head honcho, hold up, kick in your mom door, shoot with the .44.” 

These lyrics potentially implicate Young Thug as the leader of the alleged “YSL Gang” and suggest a willingness to engage in violent acts.

Gunna Released After Indictment

Young Thug has been imprisoned since May 2022 when he and fellow rapper Gunna were two of 28 people indicted in Georgia on conspiracy to violate the RICO Act.  

The YSL members were named in a RICO indictment for murder, assault, robbery, and more. According to media reports, locals say the crackdown was a long time coming.

In August 2022, District Attorney Fanni Wllis, who was presiding over Young Thug and Gunna’s case, stated her intention to use lyrics in their criminal case. Gunna finally went home after being released from Fulton County Jail on Dec. 14. His sentence was commuted to time served following his guilty plea in the RICO case.

Over the following fifteen months, 22 defendants would be released or plead out of the case.

YNW Melly’s Retrial

In a separate case, rapper YNW Melly’s retrial in a double murder case has been pushed to February 2024. This comes after a request from prosecutors, delaying the opening arguments.

The post YSL RICO Trial Day 3: First State Witness Decodes Gang Coding, Revealing Insightful Details appeared first on SOHH.com.

The YSL RICO trial has resumed, revealing more intimate details about the life of Young Thug. Attorney Brian Steel provided an in-depth look into the Atlanta rap artist’s upbringing, emphasizing his musical inspirations and challenging the perception of his involvement in criminal activities. 

Steel Opens The Floor

On Tuesday, Nov. 28,  the YSL RICO trial officially resumed with Infamous Sylvia, giving the audience a more detailed point of view within the courtroom. 

Attorney Brian Steel, spent over two hours for his opening statement to detail Jefferey “Young Thug” Williams’ upbringing. Steel’s opening statement captivated the audience, vividly depicting Young Thug’s childhood. Growing up with six sisters and two brothers, Williams faced bullying and adversity. 

He saw music as his path to escape and drew inspiration from rap legends Lil Wayne and Tupac. Steel strategically aimed to connect with the jury, composed chiefly of middle-aged black women who potentially shared similar experiences with their sons.

Young Thug’s Shocking New Acronym

One notable revelation during the trial was Williams’ explanation of the acronym “Thug” in “Young Thug.” 

Contrary to popular belief, he claimed it stood for “Truly Humble Under God,” showcasing a new perspective on his artist persona. Throughout the proceedings, Young Thug was described by Infamous Sylvia as an attentive and impassive presence in the courtroom. 

He listened intently, showing no visible emotion, much like he did on the previous trial date.

Friend or Foe?

Further testimonies shed light on the relationship between Young Thug and his co-defendants. 

Rodalius Ryan’s father confirmed with Infamous Sylvia that his son admired Young Thug solely for his music and had no personal association with him. However, the rapper’s connection with co-defendant Shannon Stillwell was evident through a mention of his name in a song with rapper Wunnie Lee, where lyrics state their affiliation with each other. The lyrics state: 

“ Where you from? Im from Bleveland. Throw your set up (YSL!)… the opps hate the crew we gettin’ this paper and we duckin’ cases… Free Lil Shannon he the one that had them runnin’ with that cannon.”

Young Thug’s System Of Support

Support for Young Thug came in the form of his family, including his mother and girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. It remains unclear whether Kevin Liles, who spoke favorably of Thug’s character during Monday’s hearing, attended the trial on this day.

The trial took an unexpected turn when the prosecuting attorney, Adriane Love, motioned for a mistrial after Steel presented Instagram page screenshots as evidence. The outcome of this motion is yet to be determined.

Updated By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/28/23 at 5:57 pm)

YSL Trial Day 1: Young Thug Slammed As The “Leader of the Wolf Pack”

Young Thug and five co-defendants faced opening statements in the YSL RICO trial on Monday, Nov. 27. In an eyebrow-raising moment, the state prosecutor referred to YSL members as animals, calling Thug “the leader of the wolfpack.”  

YSL RICO Trial Day 1

Jeffrey “Young Thug” Williams, his five co-defendants, Judge Glanville, and a diverse jury were enpaneled on Day 1 of what is expected to be a high-stakes courtroom showdown. Infamous Sylvia, who has covered the courtroom action since proceedings began, provided first-hand accounts to SOHH.

The families of the accused were in attendance, along with record executive Kevin Liles, and Thug’s girlfriend, Mariah The Scientist. The “Spread Thin” singer has shown support throughout the YSL case since Thugger was initially indicted on RICO charges. She has publicly worn “Free Thugger” T-shirts at her concerts and broadcast displays that state “Free YSL.” 

Kevin Liles testified to Young Thug’s character during early hearings, telling the court “I’m willing to back him personally and professionally.” He spoke to Infamous Sylvia about the racial biases present in the state’s prosecution. Comparing the treatment of rap artists with that of rock artists, he said “if this were rockstars on trial, we wouldn’t be here.”

‘The Jungle Book’

The prosecution aimed to paint the narrative that YSL is a criminal organization, with Young Thug as its leader. The state has prepared a case with song lyrics as evidence along with testimony by over 200 witnesses.

State prosecutor Adriane Love opened with a shaky start. Defense attorneys immediately pointed out misleading and inaccurate information in her presentation.

The defense also raised complaints about the prosecution’s failure to submit required documents for the opening statements. This led to a motion for a mistrial which the judge denied. The prosecution was given additional time to submit the documents, causing a delay in the proceedings.

In an inflammatory moment in her presentation, Love referred to Young Thug as “the leader of the wolf pack,” seeking to tie him to various crimes allegedly committed by YSL members. Young Thug, visibly offended, maintained a stoic demeanor as Love made a derogatory reference to Disney’s The Jungle Book.

Shannon Stillwell’s Crimes of Poverty

Maxwell Shardt, Esq. the attorney for defendant Shannon Stillwell, presented his opening statements in the afternoon on Day 1. He defended Stillwell, who was accused of murdering a rival. Shardt suggested that witnesses who testified against Stillwell were felons motivated to have their own sentences reduced.

Shardt admitted that Stillwell was guilty of selling drugs but that he was not a murderer. He painted the picture of Stillwell as a victim who grew up in poverty who was forced into a lifestyle of crime to survive.

Young Thug & Five Co-Defendants

Among the co-defendants, Rodalius Ryan’s case is being reviewed by an appeals court, where a witness has disputed his involvement with YSL. Marquavius Huey has been charged with theft, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm and other criminal activities. 

Diamonte Kendrick, known as Yak Gotti, faces pending murder charges while already serving time for a separate case. Shannon Stillwell, considered a “top commander” for YSL, is also being charged with murders. Quantavious Nichols, charged with murder as well, allegedly participated in a shooting alongside Stillwell.

Young Thug is charged with leading the alleged criminal organization. The prosecution intends to present song lyrics as evidence to support their claims that he is the head of the racketeering group.

A Timeline Of The YSL Legal Proceedings 

Judge Glanville said he would allow the lyrics to be used “conditionally” after prosecutors argued a motion on Nov. 8, in the Fulton County Courtroom. Prosecutors argued that lyrical evidence would prove that YSL is an organized criminal enterprise engaged in violent crime with Young Thug at the helm. 

Prosecutors presented a deck containing seventeen (17) song lyrics referencing acts of violence, criminal activities, and allegiance to their crew. 

Rap Lyrics For Conviction?

Songs like “BAD BOYS,” featuring Juice WRLD and Young Thug are being used as lyrical evidence against YSL to show the nature of the activities of the criminal enterprise. Lyrics are also being presented to imply Young Thug’s involvement as the leader. In the song “Who” with Future and Young Thug, he raps:

“I’m at the top with bro though. Ooh, head honcho, hold up, kick in your mom door, shoot with the .44.” 

These lyrics potentially implicate Young Thug as the leader of the alleged “YSL Gang” and suggest a willingness to engage in violent acts.

Gunna Released After Indictment

Young Thug has been imprisoned since May 2022 when he and fellow rapper Gunna were two of 28 people indicted in Georgia on conspiracy to violate the RICO Act.  

The YSL members were named in a RICO indictment for murder, assault, robbery, and more. According to media reports, locals say the crackdown was a long time coming.

In August 2022, District Attorney Fanni Wllis, who was presiding over Young Thug and Gunna’s case, stated her intention to use lyrics in their criminal case. Gunna finally went home after being released from Fulton County Jail on Dec. 14. His sentence was commuted to time served following his guilty plea in the RICO case.

Over the following fifteen months, 22 defendants would be released or plead out of the case.

YNW Melly’s Retrial

In a separate case, rapper YNW Melly’s retrial in a double murder case has been pushed to February 2024. This comes after a request from prosecutors, delaying the opening arguments.

The post YSL RICO Trial Day 2: Young Thug Reveals New Name Acronym appeared first on SOHH.com.