NBA YoungBoy Receives Presidential Pardon Amid Legal Challenges and Rising Fame
A Turn of Events for Louisiana Rap Icon
In a surprising development, Louisiana-born rapper NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, was granted a presidential pardon by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. This decision comes after Gaulden served nearly two years in a federal detention center on firearm-related charges, significantly impacting his career and personal life.
High-Profile Pardons in a Noteworthy Week
Gaulden’s pardon is part of a broader wave of clemency actions by President Trump, who also pardoned several prominent figures, including a former New York congressman, a labor union leader, and a well-known reality TV couple. These pardons have sparked discussions about justice, redemption, and the influence of celebrity in the legal system.
Gaulden’s Legal Journey and Recent Release
The rapper expressed gratitude for the pardon through an online statement, saying, “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to continue my growth – as an individual, a father, and an artist.” His pardon was confirmed late Wednesday evening by two anonymous White House officials, indicating the decision had been finalized but not yet officially announced.
In 2024, Gaulden was convicted in Utah after admitting to possessing firearms despite being a convicted felon. He reached a plea agreement that resolved both state and federal charges, which included a 23-month federal sentence, five years of probation, and a $200,000 fine. His legal troubles stemmed from incidents involving weapons possession during his career.
From Detention to Freedom
Gaulden was released from a federal detention facility in March, having received credit for time served, and was placed under home confinement. With the completion of his home detention last month, the pardon now exempts him from the strict conditions of his probation, such as drug testing and monitoring.
His attorney, Drew Findling, expressed relief that Gaulden’s legal saga has concluded. “From Louisiana to Utah, the struggles have been relentless, and now he can finally reunite with his family and, hopefully, focus on his burgeoning music career,” Findling stated.
Weapons and Legal Troubles
Gaulden has openly acknowledged possessing firearms during his career. He admitted to owning a Glock 21 .45 caliber pistol and a Masterpiece Arms MPA30T 9mm handgun while filming a music video in Baton Rouge. Additionally, he revealed that he kept a Sig Sauer 9mm semi-automatic pistol at his residence in Huntsville, Utah, and had agreed to surrender these weapons as part of his plea deal.
Previously, Gaulden faced charges in Louisiana for aggravated assault with a firearm, and he also pleaded guilty in Utah to involvement in a prescription drug fraud ring operating out of his home. He was ordered to pay a $25,000 fine but did not serve time in detention for the drug-related offense.
Career Highlights and Musical Achievements
Despite his legal issues, Gaulden has maintained a significant presence in the music industry. Known for his stage name, which stands for “Never Broke Again,” he is currently preparing for a major U.S. tour scheduled for September. His discography includes four albums that reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart, and he has scored multiple hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “38 Puny One,” “Startin’ Air On Today,” and a collaboration with Tyler, The Creator, titled “Wusyaname,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign. This track earned them a Grammy nomination in 2022 for Best Melodic Rap Performance.
Looking Ahead
Gaulden’s journey from legal battles to musical success exemplifies the complex intersection of fame, justice, and redemption. As he prepares to hit the road again, his story continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, highlighting the ongoing conversation about second chances in the entertainment industry.
Contributing to this report was Will Weissert from the Associated Press, based in Washington.
