Atlanta rapper YFN Lucci, whose real name is Rayshawn Bennett, has accepted a plea deal in a sweeping gang and racketeering indictment, potentially cutting short his time behind bars. Bennett, known for hits like “Key to the Streets” and “Everyday We Lit,” had been facing the possibility of life in prison for his alleged role in a 2020 drive-by shooting.
The Fulton County District Attorney’s Office had accused Bennett and three others of driving to a rival gang’s territory, where a shootout ensued, resulting in the death of 28-year-old James Adams, a passenger in Bennett’s car. Prosecutors charged Bennett with 13 counts, including felony murder, as part of a sprawling 105-count, 70-page indictment that targeted the YFN collective as a gang associated with the Bloods.
YFN Lucci in Court
Bennett’s case was running parallel to the high-profile RICO trial of fellow Atlanta rapper Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams. Both cases were being heard in the same Fulton County courthouse, highlighting the surge in RICO prosecutions in Georgia.
Under the terms of the plea deal, Bennett pleaded guilty to a single gang charge – violating the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act – while the remaining charges were dropped. This plea deal carries a 20-year sentence, with 10 years to be served in prison and the remaining 10 years on probation. However, a unique provision in the deal could see Bennett released much sooner.
Judge Thomas Cox Jr. noted the unusual nature of the plea agreement, stating that the prosecution had agreed to write a letter to the Board of Pardons and Parole expressing no objection to Bennett’s release after he becomes eligible for parole, which could be as early as one-third of his sentence. Given that Bennett has been incarcerated since 2021 and will receive credit for time served, he could potentially be released in a matter of months.
YFN Lucci during a performance
Bennett’s attorney, Drew Findling, shed light on the negotiation process that led to this outcome. He revealed that the prosecution’s initial offer was a 17-year sentence, which would have required Bennett to serve around 15 years due to the nature of the felony murder charge. Findling emphasized that this was unacceptable and maintained that his team was fully prepared to proceed to trial.
Findling highlighted the extensive preparations made by the defense, including hiring top experts in the country to analyze the evidence related to the shooting. He stated that they were confident in their ability to challenge the prosecution’s narrative and presented this information to the prosecution, urging them to be prepared for a rigorous legal battle.
While the specific details of the plea negotiations remain undisclosed, it’s evident that the prosecution’s willingness to agree to such a lenient sentence, particularly the provision regarding parole, suggests a potential weakness in their case.
Drew Findling, YFN Lucci's attorney
Findling clarified that Bennett pleaded guilty to associating with a gang and engaging in specific activities, but he never admitted to being a gang member. He also categorically stated that Bennett would not be testifying in any other trials, including the ongoing YSL case.
The case highlights the growing complexity and challenges posed by sprawling RICO indictments, which often involve numerous defendants and a vast number of alleged offenses. Findling expressed concerns over the current approach to prosecuting such cases, arguing that the sheer volume of charges and the potential for lengthy trials make it difficult to ensure a fair cross-section of the community in jury selection.
He questioned whether the pursuit of “telling the full story” through these extensive indictments is ultimately beneficial to the justice system, advocating for a more streamlined and efficient approach.
As Bennett awaits his potential release, his legal team is optimistic about his future prospects. Findling believes that his client’s focus will be on his family and rebuilding his music career. The music industry, known for its capacity for forgiveness and second chances, could well provide a platform for Bennett’s return.
