YSL Judge Issues Public Apology for Using N-Word While Reading Evidence, Sparks Social Media Buzz
3 min read
Miguel Martinez/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/AP
In an unexpected moment that has quickly spread across social media, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Paige Reese Whitaker, who is presiding over the high-profile YSL trial, issued an apology after reading an uncensored version of the N-word during an evidentiary hearing. The incident occurred on November 8, 2024, while Judge Whitaker was reviewing social media posts intended to be used as evidence in the case involving rapper Young Thug, also known as Jeffery Williams.
The moment happened as Judge Whitaker read aloud an Instagram message during the court session. The phrase she read contained the line: “I gotta do it for boo, these n****s lacking.” She repeated it directly, without censoring the slur, which led to a viral response on social media. Shortly afterward, Judge Whitaker apologized to those present and addressed the incident, explaining her unintentional use of the term.
LMAOOOO look at Hylton's face after the Judge says "these n***s lackin" 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/r0mHdLaA6W
— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) November 8, 2024
Later, following a recess, the judge clarified her slip-up in front of the court, acknowledging the error and providing an explanation: “Before we broke for lunch, we were hashing through a bunch of Instagram conversations, and I was reading one out loud. It was my first time seeing the text, and I read it as it appeared on the page without censoring. I hope that it was not offensive to anyone—it certainly wasn’t my intent.” Judge Whitaker emphasized that she does not use the word in her personal life and expressed regret over not pre-reading the statement before reading it aloud in court.
Judge Whitaker presides over the high-stakes YSL trial, where rapper Young Thug recently struck a plea deal, allowing his release after two years of incarceration. On October 31, 2024, Young Thug’s plea deal, which included admissions to charges related to drugs and weapons, resulted in a sentence reduction. Originally facing a 40-year sentence, he was granted a five-year sentence, reduced further to time served. This allowed his release, albeit with a strict set of conditions.
Judge apologizes for accidentally saying the n word when reading text message evidence
— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) November 8, 2024
Shannon (one of the defendants) is heard saying "Your Honor, there was no offense" pic.twitter.com/4MAut1m6hb
The conditions outlined by Judge Whitaker include a 15-year probation period, during which Young Thug is prohibited from entering metro Atlanta, except under special circumstances. Notable exceptions include family events, medical needs, or mandated community service. As part of his probation terms, Young Thug is also required to deliver four community presentations each year, speaking out against gang and gun violence—a commitment the court hopes will serve as a positive influence.
Despite his release, the terms of the plea deal sparked discontent from the rapper’s father, Jeffery Williams Sr., who expressed frustration at the restrictions preventing his son from freely visiting his hometown. This sentiment reflects a broader critique of the legal system’s stringent terms often imposed on individuals following plea agreements.
The YSL trial, recognized as the longest-running criminal case in Georgia’s history, remains ongoing, with two additional defendants still awaiting trial. This extended case, which has captured nationwide attention due to its high-profile defendant and allegations of gang-related activities, continues to unfold under the watchful eye of Judge Whitaker. The incident involving her inadvertent use of the N-word serves as a reminder of the delicate and challenging nature of high-stakes court proceedings—especially in cases where language and evidence intersect with sensitive issues of race and public scrutiny.
FULL SENTENCING
— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) October 31, 2024
THIS JUDGE SAW THROUGH THE STATE'S GAMES AND RULES THAT THUG IS NOT A DANGER
HE'S FREE TODAY!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/Dr7eZdZOAW
The video of the judge’s slip-up has added yet another layer of interest in a case that continues to capture public attention for its celebrity connection, complex charges, and implications on Atlanta’s broader cultural landscape.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
