Rapper NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, has reached a plea deal in connection to a prescription fraud ring case in Utah, allowing him to avoid additional prison time. Gaulden pleaded guilty to 10 charges, including two counts of third-degree felony identity fraud, two counts of third-degree felony forgery, and six misdemeanor counts of unlawful pharmacy conduct.
As part of the agreement, Gaulden will pay a $25,000 fine and entered a “no contest” plea for the remaining 36 charges. Logan District Judge Spencer Walsh granted a suspended prison sentence, citing the 27 months the rapper is already serving for a separate federal gun case in Louisiana.
“I’ve seen young men and women with immense talent and potential struggle due to their addictions, and I don’t want that for you,” Judge Walsh stated during the hearing. “I hope you can reach your full potential after completing your federal sentence. Best of luck to you, Mr. Gaulden.”
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The charges stem from allegations that Gaulden was running a prescription fraud ring out of his Utah home. His lawyers previously argued that moving to Utah in 2021 would help him avoid legal troubles following a 2019 shooting in Miami. However, he was arrested in April 2023 for the fraud case while living under house arrest in the state.
This case adds to YoungBoy’s legal history, including his September agreement to serve over two years for a Louisiana gun charge. Despite his legal challenges, the rapper remains active in the music industry. He is preparing to release his next album, I Just Got a Lot on My Shoulders, on December 6.
YoungBoy’s ongoing legal and personal battles underscore the complexities of balancing a high-profile career while navigating significant challenges. Fans and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how he moves forward.
