Kevin Liles Celebrates Young Thug Verdict with Statement Supporting Artist Freedom
Kevin Liles with Young Thug
300 Entertainment CEO Kevin Liles has released a statement following Young Thug's sentencing. The Atlanta rapper, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, will be released after spending two years in custody since his May 2022 arrest.
"Words can't express the incredible happiness and relief I feel to learn of Jeffery's freedom," Liles stated. "Artists aren't fictional characters - they're human beings first."
Young Thug faced charges under Georgia's RICO law alongside others from YSL Records for alleged murders, drug dealings, and other crimes. He opted for a non-negotiated guilty plea instead of accepting a plea deal for immediate release.
The court sentenced Williams to 15 years probation with no additional prison time. As part of his sentence, he must:
- Avoid visiting the Atlanta metro area except in special circumstances
- Conduct regular anti-gang and anti-violence presentations
During sentencing, Williams acknowledged his influence, stating, "I know what I bring to the table and I know what I am. I know the heights I've reached and I know the impact I've got on people in the community."
Liles, who signed Young Thug to 300 Entertainment in 2014, emphasized the need to discuss the criminalization of hip-hop lyrics and the use of bond denial as a weapon against defendants, while expressing joy at Williams' release and reunion with his family.
Related Articles
Dame Dash Reveals R. Kelly Collaboration Led to Split with Jay-Z: "I Knew That Was Going to Blow Up"
