NBA YoungBoy avoided charges after Utah troopers discovered drugs during a traffic stop, and other passengers claimed they were in possession of the drugs when he traveled after a pardon.
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NBA YoungBoy walked away without any charges after Utah Highway Patrol troopers discovered illegal drugs during a traffic stop on Interstate 15. The 26-year-old rapper was riding as a passenger in a vehicle when police stopped him in American Fork on New Year’s Eve.
YoungBoy avoided arrest because other passengers in the car were responsible for the contraband. Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Mike Alexander confirmed that a male driver and a female passenger claimed possession of the drugs found in the vehicle.
“In consultation with the Utah State Attorney’s Office, the decision was made to screen these two individuals for charges of possession of illegal drugs,” Alexander told reporters. Troopers declined to name the driver and passenger who were responsible.
Police may have reason to search a vehicle during a stop on Interstate 15. Alexander confirmed money was also found in the car, but investigators found no connection between the cash and the illegal substance.
The incident marks yet another run-in with law enforcement for NBA YoungBoy, who has made Utah his home base in recent years. The Louisiana-born rapper has faced multiple legal challenges in the state since moving there.
In 2024, he pleaded guilty to charges in a prescription drug fraud scheme that prosecutors described as extensive. He paid a $25,000 fine after pleading guilty to identity fraud and forgery charges related to illegally obtaining prescription drugs from a Utah pharmacy.
The rapper also served time in federal prison as a felon in possession of a firearm before receiving a presidential pardon from Donald Trump earlier this year. The pardon allowed him to resume his music career and touring schedule.
Alexander said he was unaware of any charges being considered against YoungBoy in connection with this latest incident. While the rapper’s criminal record does not appear to have been a factor in the decision, illegal drugs were found in his car.
The rapper opened up about his past struggles with substance abuse and legal issues. He spent time in rehab and spoke openly about misconceptions about his drug use.
The Utah State Attorney’s Office will now review the cases of drivers and passengers who claimed they were in possession of the drugs. No timetable was provided for when charges would be filed.
