Jay Z, T.I., and others slam Meek Mill sentence as ‘unjust and heavy-handed’
Rapper Meek Mill is making headlines this week, but it’s not for his music. The musician was recently sentenced to two to four years in Pennsylvania state prison Monday after violating probation.
The 30-year-old, known legally as Robert Rihmeek William, was already under probation for a drug and weapons case and has been arrested twice this year.
In March in St. Louis, he was charged with a misdemeanor for an altercation with two airport employees, and in August, he was illegally riding his dirt bike in the Inwood section of Manhattan.
When news of his hearing broke, many were shocked and took to social media to share their thoughts.
Several said the judge was too harsh, comparing his punishment to that of those who received less time for what they called bigger crimes.
Meek mill was sentenced to 2-4 yrs in jail for doing a wheely in NYC and failing a urine test. Beyond harsh
— Moepi (@MoepiPaul) November 7, 2017
For a failed urine test Meek Mill was sentenced to more jail time than:
— The Sparrow Project (@sparrowmedia) November 7, 2017
Darren Wilson - Michael Brown's killer
Timothy Loehmann - Tamir Rice's killer
Daniel Pantaleo - Eric Garner's killer
Sean Williams - John Crawford's killer
Michael Slager - Walter Scott's killer
COMBINED pic.twitter.com/XiGCTnQ56h
The judge was too harsh but Meek Mill should’ve done better.
— joanne (@joannes_) November 7, 2017
Even some celebrities, including Jay Z, didn’t think the punishment fit the crime.
That Philly Judge had it out for Meek..
— djenvy (@djenvy) November 6, 2017
Throwing folks in jail for 2-4 years for misdemeanor violations is just a waste of money....too long https://t.co/GxpkgqnScb
— Torrey Smith (@TorreySmithWR) November 6, 2017
»RELATED: Judge ignores recommendation, sends Meek Mill to prison
On the other hand, a couple believed the sentencing was spot-on, considering Mill’s lengthy history with law enforcement.
Am I the only one that doesn’t feel sorry for Meek Mill?
— Iyanla, Fix My Petty (@ThickHERbell) November 7, 2017
Because he in fact did violate his probation right?
Why are we supposed to be upset that Meek Mill is going to jail? We already know the system isn't for us and he did violate probation, so... pic.twitter.com/mdbgfus2yB
— Kimberly Ann Parker (@LoveTaylorDayne) November 7, 2017
Justice may be flawed, but you can't repeatedly disobey a judge's order and expect no punishment. Meek Mill is getting what he deserves.
— Curly Onions (@curlyonions) November 7, 2017
And a few, like T.I. and Kevin Hart, just wanted to offer their support.
Praying for you bruh, Meek Mill. You will come out of this a better person. Stay strong. Stay winning. Stay blessed #FreeMeekMill
— Black Or White (@Yink1234) November 6, 2017
the whole rap world has to come together now and support meek mill... for the culture!!!
— trône15.12. (@lilSosa92i) November 7, 2017
»RELATED: Georgia rapper arrested at 'Welcome home' from prison party
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
