The longest criminal trial in Georgia ended with not guilty verdicts, except for one charge, for two co-defendants linked to the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations statute, related to killings and conspiracy. The case initially featured 28 co-defendants, including rap superstar Young Thug, accused of leading an Atlanta street gang. The trial witnessed several delays, plea deals, and a stabbing. The state called over 175 witnesses, but the defense called none. Prosecutors used song lyrics and social media posts to claim violence and illegal acts, while the defense denied gang affiliations and alleged lies by witnesses. The jury deliberated for a week before delivering the verdict on December 3, finding the defendants not guilty or guilty of a felony firearm charge. Critics questioned the use of Young Thug’s lyrics as evidence and whether Black hip-hop artists were being unfairly targeted under the RICO law. The original trial judge was removed after holding a private meeting with prosecutors and a witness. Young Thug took a plea deal, involving a reduced sentence and probation, freeing him from jail. The case was an attempt to combat violence in a Atlanta neighborhood but faced criticism for its handling by the district attorney. The trial highlighted the complexities of prosecuting large-scale criminal cases and the challenges posed by legal missteps and delays.
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