Trontavious Stephens aka Tick or Slug, 30, is a popular American rapper. He just testified that he was also the founder of the YSL Gang along with Jeffrey Williams (Young Thug) and Walter Murphy.
Alleged Gang Member Trontavious Stephens Testifies in Young Thug RICO Trial
An alleged member of the Young Slime Life (YSL) gang, Trontavious “Tick” Stephens, took the witness stand this week in the high-profile RICO trial of popular rapper Young Thug (Jeffrey Williams) and associates. Stephens testified about the founding of the alleged criminal gang as part of a plea deal with prosecutors.
According to his testimony, Stephens first got involved with gang activity around age 14 or 15 with a local group called the ROC Crew.
“The first gang that I got involved with was the ROC crew,” said Stephens.
When questioned by prosecutors whether he committed any crimes with the ROC Crew, Stephens replied “no” both times.
“No,” replied Stephens.
“Never?” said Love.
“No,” replied Stephens.
Stephens went on to help found the alleged criminal street gang YSL in Atlanta alongside Young Thug and rapper Gunna (Walter Murphy). Prosecutors allege YSL engaged in murder, assault, robbery, and more under orders from Young Thug.
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During his testimony on Wednesday, Stephens was questioned extensively by prosecutors about his tattoos, relationships with co-defendants, and knowledge of various crimes.
Stephens denied committing any past crimes with previous gang associates. Prosecutors aimed to tie the violent acts of YSL directly to Young Thug as the leader, while defense attorneys maintain that YSL is simply a record label.
YSL Member Stephens Gets Reduced Sentence in Exchange For Testimony
As part of a December 2022 plea agreement, alleged Young Slime Life (YSL) gang member Trontavious “Tick” Stephens received a significantly reduced 10-year sentence for agreeing to provide truthful testimony against his former associates.
The 30-year-old rapper originally faced up to 20 years behind bars on a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act count related to his involvement in the alleged violent street gang. However, by pleading guilty and becoming a cooperating federal witness, Stephens managed to secure himself just a 10-year sentence.
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Under the terms of the deal, Stephens was required to testify truthfully about the inner workings of YSL and could not invoke his Fifth Amendment rights while on the stand. After serving 2 years already plus time served, he will spend the remainder of the 10-year sentence on probation.
