Chicago rap artist G Herbo, whose real name is Herbert Wright III, could be facing up to 20 years in prison after agreeing to plead guilty to federal wire fraud charges in Massachusetts.
G Herbo pleads guilty to federal wire fraud: Here’s what it means
The charges involve using stolen identities to finance luxury items, trips, and even “designer puppies.”
As reported by the Chicago Tribune, the plea agreement was filed in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Massachusetts, following Herbo’s recent arrest on a gun charge in Chicago.
Charges and Allegations
G Herbo and five associates, including promoter Antonio Strong, were accused of conducting wire fraud activities using stolen identities to make fraudulent charges amounting to approximately $1.5 million.
The charges include financing private jet trips, a personal chef, a vacation at a Jamaican villa, and purchasing puppies from a business in Michigan.
Plea Agreement and Sentencing
The plea agreement, still pending approval from the judge, outlines the terms of the deal, and a plea hearing is tentatively scheduled for July 27 before U.S. District Judge Mark G. Mastroianni.
While the wire fraud charge carries a potential 20-year sentence, under federal sentencing guidelines, G Herbo may face a term in the range of two to three years.
The final details of the sentencing are yet to be determined.
Previous Denial of Wrongdoing
At the time G Herbo was charged, he strongly denied any involvement in the wire fraud scheme.
He released a song and video titled Statement in late 2020, dismissing the federal investigation and defending his reputation.
Lies to Federal Agents
G Herbo was also charged with lying to a federal agent about his relationship with Antonio Strong.
He falsely claimed to have never provided money or received anything of value from Strong, whereas evidence showed otherwise.
The plea agreement contains incriminating text messages between G Herbo and Strong, further supporting the charges.
Restitution and Pending Legal Trouble
Under the terms of the plea agreement, G Herbo is required to pay $140 000 in restitution to various alleged victims, including Woof Woof Puppies in Michigan.
Meanwhile, the rap artist is still facing legal trouble related to a recent arrest in Chicago, where police found four guns and cannabis in the vehicle he was riding in.
G Herbo’s plea agreement awaits approval and sentencing.