Rapper NBA YoungBoy Pleads Guilty to Utah Prescription Drug Fraud Ring

Rapper NBA YoungBoy, born Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, has pleaded guilty to charges related to a prescription drug fraud ring operating in Utah. The 25-year-old artist, currently serving a 27-month sentence for federal charges, appeared in a Logan City courtroom on Monday, November 18, where he reached a plea deal in connection with the fraud case. Judge Spencer Walsh of the Utah 1st District Court dismissed Gaulden’s case during the hearing, according to reports from KSL and ABC 4.

Gaulden, best known for hits like “House Arrest Tingz,” pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of third-degree felony identity fraud, two counts of third-degree felony forgery, and six counts of misdemeanor unlawful pharmacy conduct. For the remaining charges, Gaulden entered a “no contest” plea, which means he neither admitted nor denied the allegations but agreed to accept the legal consequences.

Under the terms of his plea deal, Gaulden will not face additional jail time or probation for the state charges. However, he has been ordered to pay a $25,000 fine. Judge Walsh, expressing support for the rapper’s future, wished Gaulden well, noting that he appeared to be a “talented young man” despite his legal troubles.

Gaulden’s attorney, Jon Williams, indicated that the rapper’s sentence would not change significantly. In addition to the 27 months he is already serving in federal prison, Gaulden will be placed on five years of probation after his release. State prosecutor Ronnie Keller described the case as a “smaller cog” in a broader effort to seek justice, noting the involvement of multiple jurisdictions—both federal and state—in the investigation.

The prescription drug fraud operation came to light after five individuals were detained by law enforcement for using Gaulden’s vehicle to collect fraudulent prescriptions. Investigators also uncovered that someone posing as a Gwendolyn White had called a pharmacy about a prescription but was unable to provide accurate personal details, such as a correct birth year. The person’s voice was reportedly recognized by pharmacists, linking them to other fraudulent activities.

Additionally, authorities discovered that Gaulden had a prescription under his name with an incorrect birth date and was in possession of several fraudulent prescription bottles. These revelations led to the charges, though Gaulden initially faced 46 state charges, most of which were dismissed as part of the plea agreement.

The rapper’s move to Utah, where the charges arose, was reportedly an effort to keep him out of trouble after an alleged involvement in a 2019 shooting in Miami. In court, Judge Walsh expressed his concern for Gaulden’s future, especially given the young rapper’s potential. He emphasized that many talented individuals struggle with addiction and make poor decisions that jeopardize their futures. “I don’t want that for you,” the judge said during the hearing.

Walsh also told Gaulden that, once he completes his federal sentence and probation, he could have a bright future. “I’m sure that in your future, once you’re done with your federal prison time, you can be really successful on federal probation and have a really bright future where you can reach your full potential in every aspect of your life,” Walsh said.

Gaulden’s legal team did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the media. The rapper’s case highlights the challenges faced by young artists caught in legal battles, but it also presents an opportunity for redemption as he looks to turn his life around following his release from prison.

NBA YoungBoy’s legal struggles have been closely followed by fans and the media, with his career marked by both success and controversy. As he works through his sentence and probation, many are hoping that he can channel his energy into a positive future, both personally and professionally.