Rapper Tory Lanez has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with the shooting case involving fellow artist Megan Thee Stallion. The sentencing comes after several delays and legal motions, causing controversy within the hip-hop community.
The Los Angeles Superior Court held proceedings with arguments from both the prosecution and defense teams. Judge Herriford considered a recommended 13-year sentence but ultimately settled on 10. According to California State law, Lanez will serve approximately 85% of the term.
Despite recognizing Lanez’s clean criminal record and lack of threat to public safety, the judge rejected the defense’s claims of PTSD and alcohol abuse. Judge Herriford emphasized the fact that actions carry consequences and that no one wins in this case. Prior to the sentencing, Lanez expressed concern for Megan, calling her a friend, and acknowledging his own immaturity and mistakes.
During the court proceedings, more than 70 letters of support for Lanez were presented, including one from rapper Iggy Azalea and even Lanez’s young son. Lanez’s father also apologized for a courtroom outburst during his son’s initial conviction in December 2022.
The judge acknowledged two of the three aggravating factors highlighted by the prosecution, specifically Lanez’s use of a semi-automatic firearm and his vulnerability as a victim. However, the third factor, Lanez’s alleged callousness and harm caused to Megan Thee Stallion, was dismissed.
Megan Thee Stallion’s victim impact statement was delivered by the District Attorney on her behalf, expressing that she has not found peace since the incident. She accused Lanez of attempting to tarnish her character, spreading false information, and using his own childhood trauma as an excuse.
Lanez was convicted in December 2022 for assault with a semi-automatic firearm, possessing an unregistered firearm, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence. His legal team intends to file an appeal against the conviction.
