YSL RICO case: Rapper Yak Gotti to remain in jail, Shannon Stillwell to be released
Co-defendants in YSL RICO trial appear in court
The final two co-defendants in the long-running YSL racketeering trial who were found not guilty earlier this month of the most serious charges they faced including murder went back to court Tuesday. They weren’t the only ones. Five other YSL defendants also faced a judge ahead of their trials. It was a busy day in the Fulton County Courthouse.
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - Two co-defendants in the ongoing YSL RICO trial appeared in court Tuesday at the Fulton County Courthouse for separate hearings, as the high-profile case continued to unfold.
Devonte Kendrick's emergency bond hearing
Devonte Kendrick, known as rapper Yak Gotti, requested an emergency bond hearing amid safety concerns at the Fulton County Jail. Kendrick’s attorney, Kayla Bumpus, cited a recent U.S. Department of Justice report condemning the jail’s conditions, including systemic violence and unsafe living situations. Kendrick, who was stabbed earlier this month while in custody, remains at risk, Bumpus argued.
"There is a target on his back," Bumpus told Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney, asking for a $20,000 bond pending trial.
The District Attorney’s Office opposed the request, citing Kendrick’s alleged involvement in a recent jail fight. Deputy District Attorney Gautam Rao emphasized safety concerns.
"While I certainly understand everyone is talking about the conditions of the jail, exhibit A is before you as to why it’s unsafe," Rao said.
Deamonte Kendrick and Shannon Stillwell in court
Two YSL defendants -- Deamonte Kendrick and Shannon Stillwell -- appeared in Fulton County courtrooms on Tuesdays morning. They were both seeking release from jail. Stillwell should be released soon.
The judge delayed ruling on the bond request due to an outstanding warrant against Kendrick. A decision will be made once the warrant is resolved.
SEE MORE: YSL RICO trial defendant files class-action lawsuit over Fulton County Jail conditions
Shannon Stillwell's Alford plea
In a separate courtroom, Shannon Stillwell, also known as Shannon Jackson, accepted a plea deal after being acquitted earlier this month of the most serious charges, including murder and racketeering. Stillwell entered an Alford plea, maintaining his innocence while acknowledging the prosecution had enough evidence to convict him.
Judge Belinda Edwards sentenced Stillwell to time served and 12 years of probation for charges including street gang activity, weapons violations, hit-and-run, and car theft. Stillwell will also be banned from the Atlanta area for five years.
"You’re getting a second opportunity, I suggest you take full advantage of it," Judge Edwards said.
Stillwell’s attorney, Max Schardt, expressed relief after the hearing.
MORE: Young Thug allowed to visit Atlanta home starting in 2027 if he does this
"He’s beginning to realize what’s really important in life, and I’ve encouraged all those people also to make sure they continue to be there for him," Schardt said.
Stillwell, who had been incarcerated for nearly three years, is expected to be released later Tuesday or by Wednesday.
More YSL co-defendants to go to trial
In additional proceedings, five other YSL co-defendants also appeared in court. One defendant accepted a plea deal, while the remaining four indicated plans to proceed to trial. The judge warned them of the risks involved in rejecting plea offers.
The sprawling YSL RICO case has seen numerous delays, including judge changes and controversies, since Fulton County prosecutors indicted Young Thug, Gunna, Kendrick, Stillwell, and 25 others in May 2022. Four defendants remain in the case as it nears its conclusion.
The Source: Information for this story came from Fulton County court records and previous FOX 5 reporting. This article has been updated since it was originally published to give details about Tuesday's court proceedings.