Introduction to NBA Youngboy’s Pardon
The Louisiana rap artist NBA Youngboy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, was sentenced to almost two years in prison for weapon accusations. However, he was recently pardoned by President Donald Trump. This pardon is a significant development in Gaulden’s life, allowing him to move forward and focus on his career and personal life.
The Pardon and Its Implications
Gaulden was among several high-profile individuals pardoned by Trump, including a former New York congress member, a union leader, and a reality TV star couple. In a statement, Gaulden expressed his gratitude to President Trump for giving him a second chance. "I would like to thank President Trump for giving me a forgiveness and giving me the opportunity to continue building – as a man, as a father and as an artist," he said.
Background on the Conviction
In 2020, Gaulden was convicted by a federal judge in Utah for possessing weapons as a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty and received a 23-month prison sentence, as well as five years of probation and a $200,000 fine. Gaulden was released from federal prison in March and was under home confinement. With the pardon, he is no longer required to follow the conditions of his probation, including drug tests.
Reaction from Gaulden’s Lawyer
Gaulden’s lawyer, Drew Findling, welcomed the pardon, stating that he was thrilled that Gaulden’s legal saga had come to an end. "From Louisiana to Utah, the battles were endless, and now he can primarily concentrate on his family, and then of course his amazing career," Findling said. The pardon brings closure to Gaulden’s legal troubles, allowing him to focus on his music and personal life.
Gaulden’s Past Convictions
Gaulden had previously been convicted in Louisiana for aggravated assault. He also pleaded guilty to his role in a prescription drug fraud ring operating from his house in Utah, for which he paid a $25,000 fine and received no prison sentence. Additionally, Gaulden had admitted to possessing several firearms, including a Glock 21 .45 caliber pistol and a Masterpiece Arms MPA30T 9mm pistol, while filming a rap video in Baton Rouge.
Gaulden’s Music Career
NBA Youngboy, whose stage name stands for "Never Broke Again," is a successful rap artist with several chart-topping albums. He has reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart four times and has had a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Some of his notable songs include "38 Baby," "Outside Today," and "Wusyaname," a collaboration with Tyler, the Creator, which earned him a Grammy nomination in 2022. Gaulden is preparing to embark on a major US tour in September, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.
