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Young Thug's legal struggles continue as his request for a mistrial and bond has been denied by Judge Paige Reese Whitaker. The rapper now faces a third judge in his ongoing YSL RICO case, which has set a record as Georgia's longest trial, lasting eight months.
The court proceedings, which resumed on July 30 following a judge change, saw Whitaker address several critical filings. Young Thug's defense team had sought a mistrial based on claims of impropriety in a prior ex parte hearing overseen by the former judge. However, Whitaker rejected the motion, stating that granting a mistrial on these grounds would effectively place her in the role of an appeals court.
In addition to the mistrial request, Thug's legal team sought bond, citing recent developments as a significant change in circumstances. Whitaker disagreed, noting that the removal of Judge Ural Glanville—who was taken off the case after secretive meetings with prosecutors and a state witness—did not warrant a bond reconsideration.
Judge Shakura Ingram, who briefly replaced Glanville, recused herself due to a conflict of interest involving a former deputy's relationship with a co-defendant. Whitaker was appointed as the new judge on July 17, inheriting a complex and contentious case.
The trial has been marked by numerous procedural challenges and allegations of misconduct. Young Thug's co-defendant, Yak Gotti, has also filed for a mistrial, though Whitaker has yet to rule on this motion.
As the case continues, legal experts have described it as a "dumpster fire," reflecting the ongoing tumult and controversy surrounding the proceedings. Whitaker is expected to make further substantive findings on the ex parte hearing on July 31.
The YSL RICO case remains a closely watched legal battle, with significant implications for all parties involved.
