Deamonte Kendrick, more commonly known by his stage name Yak Gotti, is set to be released from Fulton County Jail after being acquitted in a gang trial and resolving other charges with a guilty plea. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Kendrick pleaded guilty to aggravated battery in connection with a June 2024 jailhouse assault involving an electrical cord.
As part of the plea agreement, further charges against Kendrick, including contraband and assault charges, were dropped. With a 12-year sentence stipulated and nine months to serve, credited for time already served, Kendrick's probation is positioned to transition to non-reporting status after two successful years. After being repeatedly warned by the prosecutor, Kendrick is famously said, "I'm ready to go home, bro" during the court proceedings, as detailed by FOX 5 Atlanta.
Kendrick's legal restrictions extend to the prohibition of firearms and the promotion of gang activity, particularly on social media or within his music. "Just don't post you hate anyone," Fulton County prosecutor Adam Abbate instructed Kendrick, reflecting the heightened scrutiny over social media activities from the legal system, as noted in the WSB-TV report.
Relief and anticipation fill the air among Kendrick's family and team, with his mother expressing, "Victory was won today, and I’m thankful that my son is coming home." In a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, his attorneys mentioned that Kendrick is anxious to return to family and music, with his attorney Bruce Harvey commenting, "The Yak Man is getting back out on the street." Unfortunately, it's been remarked, he still was in jail after he got not guilty, a sentiment that does not diminish the looming expectation for his next album, as highlighted even by Judge Paige Reese Whitaker.
Accompanied by Grammy-winning artist Young Thug, Kendrick was arrested in May 2022 amidst charges including Georgia's RICO law violations. After an extensive trial and subsequent acquittal in December 2024, Kendrick faces a new chapter post-release, with legal conditions set to guide his reintegration into the community and his music career. While commentary on the precise date of his release varies, it is anticipated to occur swiftly, signaling a new beginning for the Atlanta rapper.
