Sheff G began serving five years in Brooklyn Wednesday morning as they pleaded guilty to attempted murder and conspiracy charges linked to a massive gang investigation. The 25-year-old rapper’s real name is Michael Williams, who was detained at Brooklyn Supreme Court at 9 o’clock
The allegations stem from 140 indictments that target 32 branches of “8-Trey Crips” and “9 Ways Gang”, which prosecutors say is a wave of violence in New York City.
Prosecutors link lyrics to street violence
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez described Williams as the “founding father” of Brooklyn drill music and the “grand society godfather.” The case rekindled the national debate on the link between drilling rap and real-life violence, with authorities using lyrics and social media posts as evidence of criminal activity.
“If Sheff said something, it happened. A simple text, ‘We have to get a big,’ causing the war.”
Although prosecutors initially demanded a sentence of 20 years, the judge reduced it to five years, noting that there was no evidence that Williams had fired the weapon himself. He will also serve five years of post-release supervision.
Career momentum blocked by legal radiation
Before being arrested, Williams won a wave of success. He just finished his 18-city tour with sleepy Halloween, ending with a packed show at Manhattan’s Terminal 5. Williams said in an interview with Lisa Evers of Fox 5 NY. “We’re doing the show, and after the show, we’re going to parties and greetings. So we really like talking to fans and seeing what songs they like.”
When asked about the violence in his performance, he replied: “Not at all. Not Lisa at all.”
Despite his ever-growing figure, Williams has a long history with street gangs. He joined 83 Gangsta Crips at the age of 12 and had served before working full-time.
Political appearance causes eyebrows
In May 2024, Williams and sleepy Halloween appeared alongside former President Donald Trump during the Bronx campaign rally. At the time, both artists were already facing gang-related charges and their appearance attracted widespread attention.
After releasing a $1.5 million bail in April, Williams used a brief freedom to launch a record label with a sleeping Halloween, earning a major deal and charging multiple gold and platinum certifications.
Since his conviction was charged through the state court system rather than federal charges, Williams was not eligible for a presidential pardon. He officially began serving his sentence on June 12, 2024.
