American rapper NBA YoungBoy, whose legal name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, has entered a guilty plea in connection with a prescription drug fraud ring operating out of Utah.
The 25-year-old artist, currently serving a 27-month federal prison sentence, had his case dismissed by Judge Spencer Walsh of Utah’s 1st District Court on Monday, November 18, 2024, according to reports from KSL.
Appearing in a Logan City courtroom, Gaulden admitted to two counts of third-degree felony identity fraud, two counts of third-degree felony forgery, and six counts of misdemeanor unlawful pharmacy conduct. For the remaining charges, the Baton Rouge native entered a “no contest” plea, as reported by ABC 4.
Judge Walsh, addressing Gaulden during sentencing, acknowledged his cooperation and the resolution of the charges through a plea agreement. While Gaulden avoided additional prison time or probation for these state charges, he was ordered to pay a $25,000 fine as part of the deal.
Expressing optimism for the rapper’s future, Walsh remarked, “You seem like a very talented young man. I wish you the best of luck.”
Gaulden’s attorney, Jon Williams, explained that the plea deal was reached following discussions with federal prosecutors. Williams noted that in addition to the federal sentence Gaulden is currently serving, the rapper will face five years of probation upon his release.
“This case is somewhat unique,” stated state prosecutor Ronnie Keller.
“There have been multiple jurisdictions involved, both federal and state. This resolution represents just one part of a larger effort to seek justice.”
The drug fraud investigation initially came to light after authorities apprehended five individuals in possession of fraudulent prescriptions who were traveling in a vehicle linked to Gaulden.
Investigators uncovered evidence of the scheme when a caller, identifying as “Gwendolyn White,” attempted to secure a prescription at a pharmacy but failed to provide a correct birth year. Multiple pharmacists flagged the caller’s voice, which had been associated with various aliases.
Further scrutiny revealed a prescription under Gaulden’s name featuring a mismatched birth date. Authorities also discovered fraudulent prescription bottles in his possession.
Gaulden originally faced 46 state charges, but the majority were dismissed under the terms of the plea agreement. The rapper’s legal troubles add to a history of run-ins with the law, even as he maintains a prominent career in the music industry, known for hits like House Arrest Tingz.