Rapper YFN Lucci Released Early from Prison After Plea Deal

MONROE COUNTY, Ga. — Rapper YFN Lucci, whose real name is Rayshawn Bennett, was released from prison Friday morning, one year after pleading guilty to violating Georgia‘s Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act. The Georgia Department of Corrections confirmed his release to Channel 2 Action News.

Bennett, 34, was sentenced in January 2024 to 20 years, with 10 to serve, after reaching a plea deal in a high-profile case involving racketeering and murder charges. His early release was supported by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who sent a letter to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles advocating for his freedom.

“The District Attorney of Fulton County did the unorthodox,” Bennett’s attorney, Drew Findling, told Channel 2′s Michael Seiden in July 2024. “That letter from the district attorney is a powerful punch and is really at the heart of the letter and supporting documents and the memorandum that we have shared with the parole board.”

Bennett’s release has sparked mixed reactions, particularly regarding his past relationship with Reginae Carter, daughter of rapper Lil Wayne. Carter, who dated Bennett on and off for two years, addressed the possibility of rekindling their romance during a recent appearance on ‘The Morning Hustle Show‘ with her mother, Toya Carter.

“But spinning the block and being back together, that’s not gonna happen,” Carter said, referring to reconnecting with Bennett. Her mother added, “She don’t need to spin no blocks. She just needs to focus like she says. But I do want her to find love with somebody that’s gonna treat her right and respect her.”

Carter also expressed frustration over the public’s focus on her relationships rather than her career. “My relationships have been the highlight of my life. I just feel like people always obsess with my relationships and don’t really pay attention to my craft and my talent,” she said.

Social media users weighed in on Carter’s comments, with some applauding her decision to move on. Instagram user @open_your_eyes_women wrote, “Reginae is single, no kids, she’s not spinning the block. Good for her.” Others speculated about her true feelings, with @_officialjosiah commenting, “She definitely spinning that block again.”

Bennett’s legal troubles began in 2021 when he was arrested on charges including racketeering and murder. Despite the severity of the charges, he maintained a significant fan base and continued to release music while incarcerated. His early release marks a turning point in a case that has drawn national attention.

As Bennett adjusts to life outside prison, questions remain about his future in the music industry and his personal relationships. For now, his release has reignited conversations about justice, second chances, and the complexities of fame.