Rapper Young Thug's Racketeering Conspiracy Trial Underway in Atlanta

Prosecutors and Defense Present Competing Narratives as Controversial Use of Rap Lyrics as Evidence is Allowed

Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, is on trial in Atlanta for racketeering conspiracy, gang, drug, and gun crimes, standing trial with five others indicted with him.
Prosecutors argue that Young Thug used his music and social media to promote and establish the dominance of his gang, Young Slime Life (YSL), which they allege committed crimes including murder, armed robbery, aggravated assault, and theft.
Defense attorney Brian Steel argues that Young Thug's music is a reflection of his rough upbringing and not a chronicle of his own activities, and that the rapper, worth tens of millions of dollars, had no time or motivation to lead a gang.
Prosecutors intend to use rap lyrics from songs by the defendants to help make their case, a controversial tactic that the judge has conditionally allowed as long as prosecutors can show they’re linked to the crimes alleged in the indictment.
The trial, which began with opening statements on Monday, is expected to last months.