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A Louisiana rapper has publicly expressed his gratitude to President Trump for granting him a pardon related to gun charges. NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, emphasized that this pardon provides him with the chance to continue his growth both personally and professionally.
The rapper made these remarks after Trump announced a series of pardons on Wednesday. Gaulden previously faced significant legal challenges, having been sentenced by a federal judge in Utah last year for possessing firearms as a convicted felon.
Despite his history, Gaulden successfully reached agreements that concluded both Utah state charges and two federal cases against him. These federal charges included a potential sentence of 23 months, along with five years of probation and a $200,000 fine in another case.
In an emotional Instagram post, Gaulden stated, “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and for giving me the opportunity to keep building — as a man, as a father, and as an artist. This moment means a lot to me.” His stage name, NBA YoungBoy, stands for ‘Never Broke Again,’ which reflects his determination to rise above his challenges.
In another recent development, President Trump also commuted the sentence of a notable Chicago gang leader and pardoned a former Connecticut governor. The wide-ranging impact of these decisions has ignited discussions on criminal justice reform.
Gaulden shared his views on the pardon, saying, “It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this.” His attorney, Drew Findling, confirmed that Gaulden had transitioned from federal prison to home confinement earlier this year after receiving credit for time served. With his home confinement concluded last month, the pardon removes the burden of probation terms, including drug testing.
Findling expressed relief, stating, “From Louisiana to Utah, the battles have been endless. Now he can concentrate on his family and, of course, his flourishing career in music.” This legal shift allows Gaulden to move forward without the constraints imposed by his previous convictions.
While filming a rap video in Baton Rouge, Gaulden had been involved in an incident where he acknowledged possessing several firearms, including a Glock 21 .45-caliber pistol and a Masterpiece Arms MPA30T 9mm handgun. Additionally, he admitted that a Sig Sauer 9mm semi-automatic pistol was found in his home in Huntsville, Utah. Part of the legal agreements included his commitment to surrender these firearms.
In a previous conviction, Gaulden faced charges for aggravated assault with a firearm in Louisiana. He also pleaded guilty in November to involvement in a prescription drug fraud operation based out of his Utah residence, resulting in a $25,000 fine but no additional prison time.
Despite his legal issues, Gaulden has maintained a successful music career, achieving four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Currently, he is preparing for an extensive U.S. arena tour scheduled for later this year, showcasing his resilience in the industry.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
