Rapper Boosie Badazz, born Torence Ivy Hatch Jr., has officially accepted a plea deal in his federal gun possession case, formally pleading guilty to one count of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The announcement came after a protracted legal battle that began with his arrest in San Diego in May 2023. Hatch, 42, appeared in San Diego federal court on August 26, 2025, to enter his plea, a decision he stated was the right move after extensive family consultations and a desire to move forward with his life.
In a social media post on August 4, 2025, Boosie shared his decision with fans, writing, “JUST ACCEPTED A PLEA FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON MY GUN CASE. I THOUGHT THIS CASE WAS OVER N I WAS GOING TO GET ON WITH MY LIFE BUT ‘GOD DONT MAKE MISTAKES’ N IM TIRED OF FIGHTING.” He added, “TALKED TO MY FAMILY N THIS IS THE RIGHT DECISION. TO ALL MY FANS ACROSS THE WORLD SAY A PRAYER FOR YA BOY N GO GET THE NEW ALBUM #wordsofarealone.”
The Federal Gun Case: A Legal Labyrinth
The charges against the Baton Rouge native stemmed from his arrest in San Diego, where he was present to shoot a music video and perform. Police initially spotted Hatch in a social media video with a gun reportedly tucked into his waistband. Following this, officers used a helicopter to track his vehicle, leading to a traffic stop where two firearms were discovered inside. He was initially arrested on state charges, including felony possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and possessing ammunition as a prohibited person.
However, the legal proceedings took several turns. The state charges were initially dismissed, with Hatch’s legal team having believed the case was resolved. Despite this, federal prosecutors took up the case, re-indicting him on similar charges. A significant legal development occurred when a federal judge initially dismissed the case in July 2024, citing a Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that questioned the constitutionality of prohibiting nonviolent felons from possessing firearms, based on recent Supreme Court decisions regarding Second Amendment rights. However, federal prosecutors refiled the charges, and a larger panel of the Ninth Circuit later overturned its earlier ruling, upholding the ban and allowing the case to proceed.
Federal prosecutors allege that Hatch purchased the firearms—a Glock and a “Hellcat” handgun—in Georgia and brought them to San Diego. The plea agreement means federal prosecutors are expected to drop a second gun charge against him and recommend a sentence of two years in prison, a significant reduction from the maximum 15 years he could have faced.
Boosie’s Rationale and Fan Assurance
Hatch explained his decision to accept the plea deal by stating he was “tired of fighting” and believed it was the right move, trusting in God’s plan. He mentioned that he could have appealed a Supreme Court ruling that went in his favor, but doing so would have prolonged the legal battle for an additional two to three years. His attorney, Meghan Blanco, expressed optimism, noting Hatch’s desire to accept responsibility and move forward. “He wanted nothing more than to accept responsibility and put this behind him,” Blanco stated. “And now it’s my job to make sure the court understands the scope of the case… and all of the amazing things that Mr. Hatch has done for the community and continues to do.”
Despite the legal entanglements, Boosie Badazz has assured his fans that his upcoming performances and annual pool party will not be canceled. He clarified that sentencing typically occurs two to three months after accepting a plea deal, meaning he would still be available for his scheduled September shows. This transparency aims to alleviate concerns among his dedicated fanbase, which remains a significant factor in his career. His latest album, “Words of a Real One,” released on August 1, 2025, features his continued artistic output amidst these legal challenges.
Legal Background and Sentencing
Hatch’s prior criminal record includes a Louisiana conviction for marijuana possession, which established him as a convicted felon. He was also previously acquitted of a murder-for-hire charge in 2012. Sentencing for the current federal gun charge is scheduled for November 21, 2025. While he faces a maximum of 15 years, the plea deal suggests a recommendation for a much shorter term, potentially including credit for time served, such as time spent on electronic monitoring.
The rapper’s legal journey highlights the complex interplay between constitutional rights, federal law, and the challenges faced by individuals with prior felony convictions, particularly within the context of hip-hop music and its associated culture. This case has been a point of discussion in broader legal debates surrounding Second Amendment rights and the prosecution of firearm offenses.
The resolution of this federal case marks a new chapter for the influential figure in hip-hop, as he navigates the legal system while continuing his artistic endeavors and connecting with his global audience. The outcome of his sentencing will provide closure to this chapter of his turbulent legal history.
