Trontavious Stephens, also known as “Tick” and “Slug,” is making waves in the hip-hop community and legal circles alike.
How is Trontavious ‘Tick’ Stephens relevant to the YSL Rico trial?
Stephens took a plea deal in the high-profile Young Thug RICO case, pleading guilty to racketeering.
For his admittance of guilt, he was handed a 10-year sentence, with two years credited and the remainder on probation.
This plea deal included a crucial twist: Stephens agreed to testify at trial without the protection of the Fifth Amendment.
During his hearing, he revealed his role as a founding member of YSL (Young Slime Life), confirming his involvement in crimes including robbing a woman.
He also shed light on a text message from Young Thug, interpreting it as a call to violence against an enemy.
Stephens’ deal, where he faced five to 20 years for the racketeering charge, is a significant development in the ongoing saga.
He is reportedly the eighth of 28 defendants to accept a plea in this case. His testimony is pivotal, especially as he admits that YSL, initially named Young Slime Life, transitioned to Young Stoner Life after Thug, inked a record deal.
Stephens testimony may include rap lyrics submitted as evidence
Stephens’ testimony is not just limited to his admissions of guilt or interpretations of messages. He’s also bringing song lyrics into the courtroom.
Specifically, he’s been accused of and arrested for robbing women, tying into Young Thug’s song You, where the lyrics “She gettin’ robbed by Tick” directly refer to him, an open-and-shut admittance of the crime, according to the state.
The YSL trial, which resumed after a three-week delay due to a jail stabbing, is closely watched. Stephens is expected to be a key witness, marking the first time an alleged YSL member will testify during the trial.