Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, also known as Daniel Hernandez, was sentenced to 45 days in prison by a federal judge in Manhattan for repeated violations of his probation. The judge, Paul A. Engelmayer, expressed disappointment in Tekashi 6ix9ine's lack of respect for the judicial system rules despite receiving leniency in a previous criminal case for cooperating against the Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods gang.
Judge Engelmayer highlighted five probation violations, including missing drug tests, unauthorized travel, and lying to his probation officer, as evidence that Tekashi 6ix9ine believed he was above the law. The judge emphasized that the rules apply to everyone, regardless of fame or wealth.
Tekashi 6ix9ine apologized to the court, acknowledging his mistakes and expressing regret for letting down his family. He requested an opportunity to make amends and insisted that he does not intentionally break the law.
Following his 45-day prison term, Tekashi 6ix9ine will face additional restrictions, including a month of home incarceration, a month of home detention, and a month of curfews. His probation period has been extended by one year, during which he will be subject to electronic monitoring and domestic travel restrictions.
In 2018, Tekashi 6ix9ine was arrested for involvement with the Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods and inciting violence against rivals. Judge Engelmayer described the parole violations as breaches of the court's trust, emphasizing the need for Tekashi 6ix9ine to understand the consequences of his actions.
Despite the seriousness of the violations, the judge opted for a 45-day sentence instead of a three-month term, considering Tekashi 6ix9ine's recent solitary confinement and health concerns. The rapper was previously granted compassionate release due to asthma susceptibility to COVID-19.
Engelmayer warned Tekashi 6ix9ine about his repeated encounters with the law, including arrests in the Dominican Republic and a speeding violation. The judge stressed the importance of delivering a clear message to the rapper about the consequences of his actions.