After a nearly 10-month-long process, a jury has finally been selected for the trial of renowned rapper Young Thug and several other individuals accused of involvement in a criminal street gang responsible for various violent offenses. The selection of 12 jurors and six alternates was completed on Wednesday, reported by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, setting the stage for the trial to commence on November 27. The trial is expected to extend over several months.
Originally, the indictment involved over two dozen defendants. However, eight, including rapper Gunna (Sergio Kitchens), opted for plea deals, while the remaining 12 will be tried separately, as per the newspaper report.
The jury selection process, which began in January, encountered numerous obstacles causing significant delays. These challenges included logistical issues related to transporting defendants from different jails to the court each day, instances of contraband being brought into the court, as well as the arrests of a defense attorney and a courtroom deputy.
Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams, rose to prominence in the music industry, starting his rap career as a teenager and currently serving as the CEO of his record label, Young Stoner Life (YSL). Under the umbrella of the “Slime Family,” artists affiliated with his record label gained significant recognition, culminating in the album “Slime Language 2” reaching the top position on the charts in April 2021.
However, prosecutors have put forth the argument that YSL, in this context, stands for Young Slime Life, which they allege is a violent street gang with its roots in Atlanta and affiliations with the national Bloods gang. They assert that the gang, founded by Young Thug and two others in 2012, has been involved in various violent crimes, including killings, shootings, and carjackings. These acts were purportedly committed to amass wealth for the gang, enhance its reputation, and expand its influence and territory.
Young Thug himself is facing allegations of involvement in racketeering conspiracy and criminal street gang activities, alongside charges related to drugs and firearms.