Fulton County DA Defends YSL Trial After 19 Convictions, No Murder Verdicts

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has defended the YSL RICO trial as a success despite the absence of murder convictions, emphasizing that the prosecution secured 19 convictions and improved community safety. Willis highlighted that many defendants pleaded guilty to lesser charges, with the last murder charge dropped after Demise McMullen pleaded to aggravated assault, and the remaining defendant facing attempted murder charges. She noted that some defendants were already serving life sentences, and the prosecution's goal of reducing crime and holding gang members accountable was achieved. Willis also criticized critics and defense attorneys, stressing her strong support from constituents who recently re-elected her with 68% of the vote. The trial included high-profile figures like rapper Young Thug, who pleaded guilty to gun, drug, and gang charges but was released on probation. While some sentences were lighter than prosecutors sought, Willis insists the outcomes reflect a positive impact on public safety and called for responsible media coverage.