Atlanta Prosecutors Seek to Revoke Young Thug’s Probation
On Wednesday, prosecutors in Atlanta submitted a motion to revoke the probation of rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, based on a social media post that labelled a local gang investigator as the “Biggest liar in the DA office.”
Legal Context
Fulton County District Attorney Fani T. Willis outlined in the court filing that Williams’ behavior “directly threatens the safety of witnesses and prosecutors” and disrupts ongoing legal processes. The motion argues that these actions justify an immediate revocation of his probation.
The 33-year-old rapper previously pleaded guilty to involvement in criminal street gang activity, as well as drug and weapons charges, concluding a protracted racketeering trial that became the longest criminal proceeding in Georgia history. Although two of the six defendants who did not accept plea deals were acquitted of murder and conspiracy under the RICO Act, Williams faced substantial consequences unless he complied with the terms of his plea agreement.
Ultimately, he was sentenced to time served and placed on 15 years of probation, with the possibility of an additional 20 years in prison for any violations. The probation stipulates a range of restrictions, including:
- A ten-year ban from metro Atlanta.
- Mandatory random searches and drug testing.
- A prohibition against promoting gang activity or associating with known gang members.
These stipulations pose significant challenges for Williams’ career as a performing artist.
Response from Young Thug’s Attorney
Following the prosecutors’ motion, Williams’ lawyer, Brian Steel, characterized the filing as “baseless.” He stressed that while threats and intimidation are unacceptable, the rapper has not engaged in any wrongdoing. Steel expressed optimism about having the petition dismissed.
Events Leading to the Motion
The motion came after Williams made a post on X (formerly Twitter) where he shared a photo of Investigator Marissa Viverito. Viverito had previously testified in Williams’ trial and was involved in another preliminary hearing regarding a separate gang murder case. The court had instructed that she not appear on video during her testimony.
In addition to denouncing Viverito, the rapper reposted content from a fan account that labeled her poorly, which led to a widespread reaction online. Prosecutors noted that Williams’ posts resulted in numerous threats toward the investigator and her family.
Prosecutors’ Concerns and Broader Implications
The district attorney’s office emphasized that these actions are not isolated incidents. They see them as part of a systemic campaign aimed at intimidating and undermining the judicial process, stating, “This ongoing manipulation of public perception through social media is intended to obstruct justice, silence witnesses, and threaten those who enforce the law.”
Willis further indicated that such threats are inherently linked to gang activities.
Young Thug’s Stance and Future Plans
In a response on social media, Williams maintained that he has not issued any threats and expressed his commitment to peace, stating, “I’m a good person, I would never condone anyone threatening anyone or definitely participate in threatening anyone. I’m all about peace and love.”
Since his release on October 31, 2023, Young Thug has taken a cautious public approach, refraining from releasing new music and maintaining a low profile. He has, however, announced performances slated for various summer music festivals starting June 22 in Illinois, marking his first live performances since 2022. His team has also teased upcoming projects with cryptic references under the phrase “UY Scuti,” alluding to a red supergiant star.
