Updated: Tuesday, September 1, 3:38 pm E.T.
Rap has never had the cleanest relationship with the criminal justice system. From street cases that followed artists into fame to federal indictments that completely stopped careers in their tracks, plenty of rappers have gone from performing in front of thousands to spending years behind bars.
Of course, these lists change fast. Some names that were locked up the last time around — including Max B, Fivio Foreign and Young Thug — have since made it home, while other rappers have been convicted, sentenced or are still sitting in jail waiting for their day in court. And in a few cases, the amount of time they’re facing means fans may not see them free for a very long time.
So with the list needing a refresh, we’re taking another look at some of the biggest names in Hip-Hop who are currently incarcerated. Some are serving lengthy sentences after serious convictions, while others are still fighting their cases and have yet to be found guilty. Either way, these are 10 rappers who remain behind bars.
Sheff G
Brooklyn drill rapper Sheff G is serving a five-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to two counts of second-degree attempted murder and a conspiracy charge stemming from a sweeping gang indictment. Prosecutors accused Sheff, born Michael Williams, of helping direct violence connected to the 8 Trey Crips and 9 Ways gangs, including offering money and jewelry as rewards for shootings. He officially began serving his sentence on October 1, 2025, and will also have five years of post-release supervision once he gets out. His sentence could keep him incarcerated until around 2030, although the exact release date could be affected by New York correctional rules and earned credits.
