NEW YORK — Rapper Fetty Wap, known for his hit song “Trap Queen,” has been handed a six-year prison sentence after pleading guilty in a New York federal court to his involvement in a large-scale drug distribution ring.
Under his legal name William Maxwell, Fetty Wap admitted to distributing 25 kilograms (55 pounds) of cocaine as part of a crew that also trafficked heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine across Long Island and New Jersey between June 2019 and June 2020.
During a sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Joanna Seybert in Central Islip, N.Y., Maxwell expressed remorse and apologized. Clad in a beige jumpsuit, he explained that his actions were driven by the need to support his family when his income from live performances dwindled during the pandemic.
“I have always aimed to do right by my family and loved ones,” Maxwell stated, addressing a packed gallery of friends, family, and business associates.
In defense of her client, Maxwell’s lawyer, Elizabeth Macedonio, urged Judge Seybert to consider not only his songs, which she acknowledged glamorized drugs and violence, but also the numerous testimonials highlighting his qualities as a father and family man.
Prosecutor Christopher Caffarone countered by emphasizing that Maxwell had engaged in a significant criminal conspiracy and had been accused of threatening another individual with a firearm while out on bail.
While prosecutors sought a sentence of up to nine years, Maxwell requested the minimum sentence of five years. Judge Seybert, in light of the gravity of Maxwell’s crimes, determined that a severe sentence was warranted.
The sentencing of Fetty Wap underscores the consequences of involvement in illicit drug distribution and sends a message about the serious nature of such offenses within the criminal justice system.