Rapper Fetty Wap Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking

On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, rapper Fetty Wap, also known as Willie Junior Maxwell II, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for his involvement in a drug-trafficking scheme in Long Island and New Jersey. The sentencing came after Maxwell pleaded guilty in August 2022 to conspiracy to distribute and possess controlled substances, which carried a mandatory minimum sentence of five years. According to officials, he was part of an organization that distributed more than 100 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine before being arrested in October 2021.

Apologies and Sentencing

Maxwell apologized for his actions in front of friends and family at his sentencing hearing. He said he was exactly where he was supposed to be after his lawyers suggested his financial hardship led him to sell drugs amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. However, prosecutors argued that Maxwell sold drugs and accused him of conspiring to distribute and possess more than 100 kilograms of heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.

Drug Trafficking Scheme and Co-Defendants

Maxwell and five co-defendants were accused of transporting drugs via the U.S. Postal Service and cars that had hidden compartments before distributing them to dealers on Long Island and New Jersey. According to court documents, Anthony Leonardi, Robert Leonardi, Brian Sullivan, and Kavaughn Wiggins, as well as a New Jersey corrections officer, Anthony Cyntje, all pleaded guilty and are currently awaiting sentencing.

Court Documents and Seized Items

Search warrants executed during the investigation found about $1.5 million in cash, 16 kilograms of cocaine, 2 kilograms of heroin, fentanyl pills, and multiple firearms. Court filings indicated that the six men distributed drugs between June 2019 and June 2020.

Hopes for the Future

Maxwell’s lawyer, Elizabeth Macedonio, called the sentencing a sad day but reminded everyone at the hearing that Maxwell is a kid from Paterson, New Jersey, who made it out. Macedonio stated that Maxwell accepts responsibility for his conduct and called for the rapper to put it together as he has a lot going for him.

A Rise to Fame

Maxwell rose to prominence after his debut single, “Trap Queen,” reached No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in May 2015. He was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 2016.

The Sentence

Maxwell was sentenced to six years in prison and five years of post-release supervision. Seybert, the U.S. District Judge, told Maxwell that he had a lot going for him and encouraged him to make the most of his future.

Conclusion

Maxwell’s downfall shows that even those with fame and success can make mistakes that led to poor decisions and criminal activity. While he has been sentenced to prison, there is still hope for his future after serving his time and rebuilding his life. Hopefully, this serves as a cautionary tale for others to make better decisions and stay away from criminal activity.

FAQs

1. What was Fetty Wap sentenced for?

Fetty Wap was sentenced to six years in federal prison for his role in a drug-trafficking scheme that distributed more than 100 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine.

2. When was Fetty Wap arrested?

Fetty Wap was arrested at New York City’s Citi Field in October 2021, shortly before he was scheduled to perform a concert there.

3. What happened to the co-defendants in the drug-trafficking scheme?

Anthony Leonardi, Robert Leonardi, Brian Sullivan, and Kavaughn Wiggins have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Meanwhile, a New Jersey corrections officer, Anthony Cyntje, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for his role in the crime in March 2023.

4. What did Fetty Wap apologize for during his sentencing hearing?

Fetty Wap apologized for his actions and admitted that his selfishness and pride put him in the position he was in today.

5. What is Fetty Wap’s legal name?

Fetty Wap’s legal name is Willie Junior Maxwell II.