Kanye West has called for the freedom of Young Thug, who is currently facing RICO charges with other YSL members. This news comes from DJ Akademiks via Instagram, where the DJ was apparently texting West when the topic came up. In the text, Kanye says, “We gotta get thug outta jail,” and Akademiks replies, “Just sent this to Kim.”
While his reply is whimsical and funny, many people in the comments agree with West. The RICO case that has been going on for several months now has seen Young Thug and others part of YSL labeled as criminals. The bottom of the text message exchange screenshot shows “Kanye West FREE YSL.”
For those who do not know much about YSL or Young Thug’s RICO case, here is a quick summary of what has occurred. Firstly, Gunna and Young Thug went under arrest and couldn’t get out on bond. Secondly, 28 members of YSL faced conspiracy charges for allegedly violating RICO law.
The 56-count indictment claims that YSL participated in activities like murder, armed robbery, aggravated assault, theft, carjacking, drug dealing, and witness intimidation. Something to keep in mind is that the indictment portrays Young Thug as a sort of mob boss.
Additionally, other YSL members faced charges of attempted murder concerning the stabbing of YFN Lucci. Criminal charges against rappers are nothing new, but the evidence this time makes these recent cases unique.
The artists’ own rap lyrics are also alleged evidence against themselves. Using rap lyrics in this way can be seen as a violation of freedom of speech. Of course, Kanye is not the only rapper to come out to support Young Thug, Gunna, and YSL.
Young Thug made a plea from jail, stating, “I always use my music as a form of artistic expression, and I see now that Black artists and rappers don’t have that freedom. Everybody, please sign the Protect Black Art petition and keep praying for us. I love you all.” See the full video of Young Thug below.
