Attorneys representing Jeffrey “Young Thug” Williams have asked a Georgia court to prevent the use of his lyrics in a trial that is slated to begin in 2023. In a motion obtained by Deena Zaru of ABC News, attorney Brian Steel argues that the use of his client’s lyrics is “racist and discriminatory.”
“Using these lyrics/poetry/artistry/speech against Mr. Williams is racist and discriminatory because the jury will be so poisoned and prejudiced by these lyrics/poetry/artistry/speech as same is unlawful character assassination,” Steel stated.
“[Lyrics] cannot be used as evidence of crime if they are simply connected to music/freedom of expression/freedom of speech/poetry.”
Young Thug is one of more than two dozen people accused of violating the state’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations. In addition, he has been charged with two counts of participating in street gang activity, one count of possessing a firearm while committing a felony and three counts of violating the state’s controlled substances act. Prosecutors claim that Young Thug’s YSL Records is a front for an organization participating in criminal activity.
“YSL is a criminal street gang that started in late 2012 in the Cleveland Avenue area of ATL. YSL claims affiliation with the national Bloods gang,” prosecutors stated.
Despite the accusations levied against Young Thug, Gunna and 26 YSL affiliates, the Grammy Award winner maintains his innocence.
“I’ll tell you the response to any allegation; Mr. Williams committed no crime whatsoever,” Steel said.
“And we will fight to my last drop of blood to clear him.”
