A Fulton County jury returned a verdict for two defendants, including Yak Gotti, who chose not to accept plea agreements in the extensive Young Slime Life (YSL) RICO trial.
Deamonte Kendrick, also known as Yak Gotti, was found innocent of all charges, while Shannon Stillwell was convicted of the sole charge of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
The jury heard the case last week and closing arguments ended Tuesday, December 3.
The trial, which marks the longest criminal case in Georgia history, has faced numerous delays, including a 10-month jury selection process and testimony starting in November 2023. There were also interruptions to the trial, such as when Stillwell was stabbed while in custody at Fulton. County Jail last year.
Prosecutors argued that YSL members were responsible for violent crimes in Atlanta, charging Kendrick and Stillwell with the alleged drive-by shooting death of Donovan Thomas Jr., also known as “Big Nut.” was due to his association with a rival gang. Despite presenting tattoos, social media activity and other evidence as evidence of gang involvement, the defense countered by asserting that YSL is a record label, not an organization criminals and Kendrick and Stillwell are music experts.
Kendrick and Stillwell were among 28 individuals first indicted in 2022 on charges of violating Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. The indictment includes high-profile figures like Young Thug, who pleaded guilty in a non-negotiable plea deal in November. Nine other defendants, including rapper Gunna, accepted plea deals before the trial, while a number of others had their sentences annulled and remained unresolved.
The case also attracted attention due to the violence involving Kendrick.
On Sunday, December 1, Kendrick was stabbed while in custody, reportedly suffering minor injuries from a sharp object during an altercation with another inmate. His attorney, Doug Weinstein, confirmed the attack, saying, “Although he appeared tired, I expect him to make a full recovery.” Despite being stabbed, Kendrick appeared in court the next day. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the altercation occurred at the South Annex in Union City and noted that the incident is being investigated to determine if the attacker will be charged.
— Originally published on Enstarz
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