Rapper Boosie Badazz, whose legal name is Torence Ivy Hatch Jr., has officially pleaded guilty to a federal charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, accepting a plea deal that recommends a two-year prison sentence. The artist appeared in a San Diego courtroom on August 26, 2025, to enter his plea, bringing a significant conclusion to a legal saga marked by numerous twists and turns that began in May 2023. His sentencing is scheduled for November 21, 2025.
The Genesis of the Federal Gun Charge
The case against Boosie Badazz originated from his arrest in San Diego, California, in May 2023. Prosecutors allege that on the day of his arrest, Hatch traveled with firearms aboard a Delta Air Lines flight from Georgia to San Diego. The initial encounter with law enforcement reportedly began when San Diego police officers, while monitoring an Instagram Live feed of a known gang member, spotted the rapper with a handgun visibly tucked into his waistband. Following this observation, officers used a helicopter to track Boosie’s vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. During the stop, police discovered two loaded handguns—a Glock and a Hellcat—within the vehicle. This led to his arrest on state charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm, a charge stemming from a previous drug conviction in 2011 that legally prohibits him from owning firearms under federal law.
A Labyrinth of Legal Proceedings
Boosie Badazz’s journey through the legal system has been anything but straightforward. Initially facing state charges, those were later dropped by state prosecutors. However, almost immediately after exiting the courthouse, federal agents apprehended him, levying an identical federal charge. This marked the beginning of a complex back-and-forth between state and federal jurisdictions.
A significant development occurred in July 2024 when a federal judge dismissed the case. This dismissal was influenced by a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that found it unconstitutional to prohibit individuals convicted of nonviolent offenses from possessing firearms, citing a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision concerning Second Amendment rights. Boosie Badazz himself expressed a sense of vindication at the time, stating that he saw “who was down with me and who wasn’t” and felt “God had a different plan” beyond perceived prison time.
However, this legal reprieve was temporary. A larger panel of the appeals court subsequently overturned the initial ruling, reinstating the federal ban on firearm possession for convicted felons. This turn of events paved the way for federal prosecutors to refile the case. A separate drug-related charge was also added at one point, but it was ultimately dropped as part of the plea agreement.
The Plea Deal and Recommended Sentence
Facing the renewed federal scrutiny and the prospect of a lengthy legal battle, Boosie Badazz announced on social media in early August 2025 that he had accepted a plea deal. “JUST ACCEPTED A PLEA FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON MY GUN CASE,” he posted, expressing that he was “tired of fighting” and believed it was “the right decision” after consulting with his family. He also conveyed faith in a higher plan, stating, “GOD DONT MAKE MISTAKES.”
The plea agreement involves Boosie pleading guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Under the terms of the deal, federal prosecutors are recommending a 24-month, or two-year, prison sentence. This recommendation offers a significant reduction from the maximum penalty of 15 years he could have faced if convicted at trial. Prosecutors have also indicated they will not pursue monetary fines, citing the rapper’s “limited financial prospects.” The agreement also stipulates three years of supervised release following his prison term. While the judge will have the final say on the sentence, the recommendation from the prosecution carries considerable weight. The case has seen multiple news stories covering his legal journey, making it one of the top hip-hop stories of the year.
A Look Ahead for the Hip-Hop Artist
Boosie Badazz, a prominent figure in the hip-hop music scene known for his outspoken nature and extensive discography, has consistently navigated legal challenges throughout his career. His legal history includes a previous five-year prison sentence for drug charges and a prior acquittal on a first-degree murder charge. Despite these setbacks, he has continued to release music and engage with his fanbase.
Boosie is currently free on a $100,000 bond as he awaits his sentencing. His attorney, Meghan Blanco, has expressed optimism, emphasizing Hatch’s community involvement and charitable contributions. The rapper has assured fans that he will continue with scheduled performances and personal events leading up to his sentencing date, stating that his plea does not prevent him from fulfilling his commitments. As this chapter closes, Boosie Badazz prepares to face the consequences of his plea, aiming to move forward with his life and career.
