Young Thug offered a heartfelt apology during his sentencing in the YSL RICO trial, taking full responsibility for his actions. Initially pleading not guilty in 2022, he ultimately entered a non-negotiated guilty plea to charges of criminal gang activity, drug violations, and multiple gun offenses. In front of Judge Paige Reese Whitaker, Thug expressed deep regret, acknowledging the impact on his family, friends, and fans. He reflected on how being “too nice” often led him into trouble, adding that he has learned valuable lessons from his experience.

“I promise you I won’t ever be in this situation again,” Thug said, vowing to change his life and avoid similar pitfalls. The Atlanta rapper also recognized that he didn’t fully appreciate the opportunities he’d achieved, admitting, “I come from nothing and I’ve made something, and I didn’t take full advantage of it.”

Sentenced to 40 years with 5 years initially set for prison, his sentence was later commuted to time served, with 15 years of probation and a backloaded 20 years. Arrested in May 2022 alongside Gunna and other YSL affiliates in a large-scale RICO case, Young Thug is now officially free and was released from Fulton County Jail on Thursday night.