In a recent development, a rapper from New York City, who gained attention last year for appearing alongside former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, has admitted to charges of attempted murder and conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that the artist, known by his stage name Sheff G, whose real name is Michael Williams, utilized resources from his music fame to support gang-related activities in Brooklyn.
Williams, aged 26, has agreed to a plea deal that will see him serving a five-year prison sentence, as confirmed by Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. The agreement was finalized in a Brooklyn court where the DA remarked, “Notoriety could not shield this defendant from justice,” highlighting how the rapper’s fame was exploited to orchestrate violence that disturbed the local neighborhoods.
Sheff G’s music, widely popular on platforms such as YouTube and Spotify, has accumulated millions of views and streams. His arrest is part of a larger investigation targeting gang-related shootings within the Brooklyn area. Over 30 individuals, allegedly associated with the 8 Trey Crips and the 9 Ways gang, have so far been charged as part of this probe.
Among the arrested is another rapper, Tegan Chambers, who goes by the name Sleepy Hallow. He also shared the stage with Trump and Sheff G during a rally held on May 23, 2024, in the Bronx. Authorities claim that Sheff G freely distributed money and jewelry to gang members engaged in turf wars against rivals in Brooklyn. On one occasion, he allegedly operated as a getaway driver in a 2021 shooting incident that inadvertently injured two bystanders instead of the intended rival target.
Further allegations against Sheff G include celebrating violent acts with his gang affiliates. Prosecutors say he hosted an extravagant dinner for Sleepy Hallow and others at a Manhattan steakhouse to toast a 2020 shooting that killed a supposed rival gang member and wounded five others. These activities were allegedly captured through surveillance footage, social media interactions, and text communications, while also being mentioned in the rappers’ lyrics, according to Gonzalez’s office.
Arthur Aidala, legal counsel for Sheff G, stated on Thursday that after a thorough examination of the evidence and careful contemplation, his client adjudged the plea deal to be in everyone’s best interest. Sentencing for Sheff G is scheduled for August 13. Meanwhile, Sleepy Hallow is due in court on April 11, though his lawyer has not provided any comments yet.
Both rappers gained particular attention during Trump’s campaign events, where he sought to secure support among Black voters by comparing his legal challenges to racial injustices prevalent in the criminal justice system. At the Bronx rally, Sheff G conveyed, “One thing I want to say: They are always going to whisper your accomplishments and shout your failures. Trump is going to shout the wins for all of us,” resonating with the Republican candidate’s message.