The trial of rapper Young Thug, also known as Jeffery Williams, took a dramatic turn on Monday as key witness Kenneth “Lil Woody” Copeland returned to the stand after a two-month hiatus. The proceedings resumed under Fulton County Superior Court Judge Paige Reese Whitaker after initial delays related to changes in the presiding judges.
Young Thug faces significant charges under Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act involving gang activity, drug offenses, and gun charges. The courtroom atmosphere has been charged with tension, marked by controversies and startling developments since the trial began.
On Monday, Copeland expressed his frustration with the prosecution. After being asked about his willingness to testify, he remarked, “I’m tired of y’all bothering me.” Judge Whitaker reminded him of his immunity deal, but Copeland seemed uncooperative, suggesting he felt pressured and confused.
Before the jury entered, Whitaker confirmed that any testimony given after the last break in June was to be disregarded. When the jury returned, Copeland repeatedly answered questions with “I don’t recall,” and appeared visibly agitated, at one point declaring, “I’m full of s***.”
His testimony took a notable turn when he admitted he had previously lied to authorities to divert attention away from his activities, stating, “To get them off me, I said, ‘Thug did this, Thug did that.'” His outbursts prompted Deputy District Attorney Simone Hylton to remind him to keep his language appropriate.
Defense attorney Brian Steel sought a mistrial, arguing that Hylton’s questioning was leading and biased, although the judge did not grant this request, instead instructing for more careful handling of witness questioning.
Despite the upheaval, Copeland insisted he wasn’t trying to absolve Young Thug, stating, “I care about the truth,” highlighting the complexities and emotional currents of the ongoing trial.