Sheff G started serving a five-year jail sentence Wednesday morning in Brooklyn after pleading responsible to tried homicide and conspiracy costs tied to a sprawling gang investigation. The 25-year-old rapper, whose actual identify is Michael Williams, was taken into custody at Brooklyn State Supreme Courtroom at 9 a.m.
The costs stem from a 140-count indictment that focused 32 alleged associates of the “8-Trey Crips” and “9 Methods Gang,” which prosecutors say had been chargeable for a wave of violence throughout New York Metropolis.
Prosecutors Linked Lyrics to Avenue Violence
Brooklyn District Lawyer Eric Gonzalez described Williams as each a “founding father” of Brooklyn drill music and a “gangland godfather.” The case has reignited nationwide debate over the connection between drill rap and real-life violence, with authorities citing lyrics and social media posts as proof of felony exercise.
NYPD Assistant Chief of Detectives Jason Savino stated throughout the investigation, “If Sheff stated one thing, it occurred. A easy textual content, ‘We bought to get an enormous one,’ created a struggle.”
Though prosecutors initially sought a 20-year sentence, the choose diminished it to 5 years, noting there was no proof that Williams personally fired a weapon. He may also serve 5 years of post-release supervision.
Profession Momentum Halted by Authorized Fallout
Earlier than his arrest, Williams was using a wave of success. He had simply wrapped up an 18-city tour with Sleepy Hallow, ending with a packed present at Manhattan’s Terminal 5. In an interview with FOX 5 NY’s Lisa Evers, Williams stated, “We be doing the exhibits, and after the exhibits we be doing the meet and greets. So we actually like getting to speak to the followers and see what songs they like.”
When requested about violence at his performances, he responded, “By no means. By no means Lisa.”
Regardless of his rising profile, Williams had a protracted historical past with avenue gangs. He joined the 83 Gangsta Crips at age 12 and had beforehand served time earlier than turning to music full-time.
Political Look Raised Eyebrows
In Might 2024, Williams and Sleepy Hallow appeared on stage with former President Donald Trump throughout a Bronx marketing campaign rally. Each artists had been already dealing with gang-related costs on the time, and the looks drew widespread consideration.
After posting $1.5 million bail in April, Williams used his temporary freedom to launch a file label with Sleepy Hallow, safe a significant deal and acquire a number of gold and platinum certifications.
As a result of his conviction got here by the state courtroom system and never federal costs, Williams will not be eligible for a presidential pardon. He formally started serving his sentence on June 12, 2024.
