YSL Trial: Yak Gotti Found Not Guilty On All Counts

On December 3, 2024, a Fulton County jury acquitted Deamonte Kendrick, known professionally as Yak Gotti, of all charges in the extensive YSL RICO trial. This trial, noted as the longest in Georgia’s history, scrutinized alleged criminal activities linked to the Young Slime Life (YSL) collective.

Yak Gotti faced multiple charges, including racketeering and murder. The jury’s decision to acquit him on all counts signifies a significant conclusion to a high-profile case that has captivated both the legal community and the public.

The trial’s outcome also involved co-defendant Shannon Stillwell, who was acquitted of the major charges but found guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Stillwell received a 10-year sentence, with credit for two years served and the remainder on probation.

This verdict represents a notable setback for Fulton County District Attorney Fani T. Willis, whose office pursued the case under Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. The prosecution’s strategy, which included the use of rap lyrics as evidence, sparked considerable debate and faced criticism for its approach.

The YSL RICO trial has had significant implications for Atlanta’s rap community, highlighting the intersection of artistic expression and legal accountability. The acquittal of Yak Gotti may influence future prosecutorial tactics, particularly concerning the admissibility of creative works as evidence in criminal proceedings.

As the legal proceedings conclude, the focus shifts to the broader impact on the music industry and the ongoing discourse regarding the criminal justice system’s engagement with cultural expression.