Rapper Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, widely recognized by his stage name NBA YoungBoy, has publicly revealed that he was granted a presidential pardon by former President Donald Trump. The Baton Rouge-born artist shared the news with his fans through an Instagram post on Wednesday, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to move forward with his life and career.

In his message, Gaulden wrote:

"I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building as a man, as a father, and as an artist. This moment means a lot. It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this."

He extended his appreciation to Alice Marie Johnson, Trump’s criminal justice advocate often referred to as the "Pardon Czar," as well as his attorney, Brittany K. Barnett, for their support throughout the legal process.

NBA YoungBoy’s Legal Journey and What Lies Ahead

The rapper’s legal troubles began when he pleaded guilty to federal gun possession charges in 2024. A Utah judge sentenced him to nearly two years in prison after he admitted to illegally owning several firearms, including a Glock 21 and two semi-automatic handguns. The weapons were found during a music video shoot in Baton Rouge and at his residence in Utah.

Gaulden, who has a prior conviction for aggravated assault with a firearm in Louisiana, agreed to surrender the firearms as part of his plea deal. His legal saga also included bizarre allegations of impersonating a doctor to obtain prescription painkillers, although no charges were confirmed from that investigation.

Looking ahead, NBA YoungBoy is gearing up for his “MASA Tour,” scheduled to launch in Dallas this September, marking a new chapter in his life and music career.

Meanwhile, Trump also granted pardons to reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, signaling a broader wave of high-profile clemency.