Young Thug RICO Trial Update: Copeland’s Testimony Picks Up Tuesday

Kenneth “Lil Woody” Copeland took the stand again on Monday in the YSL RICO trial after a lengthy delay. Fulton County prosecutors grilled him about his involvement with Young Thug and others.

Copeland, the key witness for the state, frequently responded with “I don’t recall” and admitted to past lies. This has raised doubts about the strength of the prosecution’s case.

Experts disagree on whether his testimony significantly weakens the prosecution’s case or if convictions remain possible. However, some believe that convictions might still be possible despite his testimony.

During his testimony, Copeland repeatedly asked the judge about his immunity deal. Additionally, he admitted to committing a crime while on the stand.

Copeland admitted that he and a friend shot at a barbershop owned by Rich Homie Quan’s father in September 2014, causing the owner’s hospitalization. Moreover, Copeland named his friend, “Threat,” in the murder of Donovan “Nut” Thomas. However, he was unsure if Threat was the actual killer.

A shooting on June 29 killed Travante Turner, known as “Threat.” On Monday, Copeland mostly answered “I don’t recall” to the state prosecutor’s questions and complained about the testimony demands.

He confessed to lying about Young Thug’s alleged criminal activities in 2015 and now says he is focused on telling the truth.

Judge Paige Reese Whitaker instructed the jurors to ignore Copeland’s testimony after 3 p.m. on June 12. In response, the jurors indicated that they could disregard Copeland’s testimony without issue.

Young Thug’s attorney, Brian Steel, asked for a mistrial after a confusing statement from the prosecutor. The judge advised the prosecutor to ask clearer questions.

The court has set Copeland’s return to the stand for Tuesday morning. Young Thug and 27 others face racketeering and violent crime charges in this record-breaking trial that started in November 2023.

Prosecutors want to prove that YSL (Young Slime Life) is a criminal gang. The defendants argue that it is just a record label.

Young Thug faces eight criminal charges. The trial has faced many disruptions, including illnesses, a juror and lawyer’s arrest, a stabbing, and changes in judges.