May 29, 2025: Rapper NBA YoungBoy has officially been pardoned by former President Donald Trump, marking the end of a long legal journey for the Louisiana artist. YoungBoy, born Kentrell Gaulden, was previously sentenced to nearly two years in prison on federal gun charges. The pardon, confirmed by two White House officials, was part of a batch of high-profile clemencies issued this week.
In a public statement, Gaulden expressed his gratitude:
“I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building — as a man, as a father, and as an artist.”
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The rapper had faced multiple charges stemming from gun possession and a prescription drug fraud case. In 2024, he accepted a plea deal in Utah that addressed both federal and state charges. One federal sentence included 23 months in prison, and another imposed five years of probation and a $200,000 fine. However, due to time served, Gaulden was released in March and placed under home confinement, which recently ended.
His attorney, Drew Findling, confirmed that the pardon also nullifies the probation terms, meaning YoungBoy is no longer subject to drug testing or other restrictions.
“From Louisiana to Utah, the battles have been endless,” Findling said. “Now he can focus on his family and his incredible music career.”
Gaulden admitted to owning multiple firearms, including while shooting a music video in Baton Rouge and keeping weapons at his Utah residence. His previous convictions included aggravated assault with a firearm.
Despite legal troubles, NBA YoungBoy has remained a powerhouse in music, with four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. His discography includes fan favorites like “38 Baby” and “Outside Today,” and he earned a Grammy nomination for “Wusyaname” with Tyler, The Creator and Ty Dolla $ign in 2022.
With a major U.S. tour planned for September, YoungBoy is now free to return to the spotlight — on his own terms.