A Louisiana-based rap artist, known as NBA YoungBoy, pleaded guilty to his involvement in a large-scale prescription drug fraud ring that operated from his Utah residence. The 25-year-old rapper, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, entered the plea in a Logan, Utah courtroom. Originally facing 46 charges, he pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree felony identity fraud, two counts of third-degree felony forgery, and six counts of misdemeanor unlawful pharmacy conduct. Gaulden also entered a 'no contest' plea to the remaining charges.
As part of a plea deal, Gaulden will not serve prison time in Utah. His four felony charges were reduced to Class A Misdemeanors, and he was fined $25,000. However, he is expected to serve 27 months in federal prison for related charges in Weber County, Utah, followed by five years of federal supervised probation upon release.
State prosecutor Ronnie Keller described the case as involving multiple jurisdictions and emphasized the pursuit of justice. Gaulden had been under house arrest in Utah due to his alleged involvement in a 2019 Miami shooting. His relocation to Utah in 2021 aimed to keep him out of trouble.
During the hearing, District Judge Spencer Walsh acknowledged Gaulden's talent and potential, urging him to overcome his struggles with addiction. Walsh expressed hope for Gaulden's successful future post-incarceration, encouraging him to reach his full potential in life.
Despite his legal troubles, Gaulden, also known as YoungBoy Never Broke Again, has achieved significant success in the music industry. With four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and a Grammy nomination in 2022 for Best Melodic Rap Performance, his music has garnered millions of streams on platforms like Spotify.
While facing legal consequences, Gaulden's musical accomplishments highlight his talent and potential for a successful future beyond his current challenges.
