Mystikal, the Louisiana-based rapper, real name Michael Tyler, has pleaded guilty to third-degree rape. The 55-year-old rapper appeared in a state courthouse this week to finalize the plea, a move that significantly reduces his potential time behind bars. While he originally faced a mandatory life sentence under first-degree rape charges, this new agreement caps his possible prison time at 20 years.
The legal battle began in 2022 following an alleged assault at Mystikal’s residence in Prairieville, Louisiana. The initial indictment was extensive, covering first-degree rape, domestic abuse battery by strangulation, simple robbery, and false imprisonment.
Additionally, authorities tacked on several drug charges, including possession of heroin, methamphetamine, and Xanax, after responding officers reported finding narcotics at the scene.
According to investigators, the victim alleged that Tyler choked and beat her before the sexual assault occurred. She also claimed that the rapper took her car keys and phone to prevent her from leaving and “forced her to send him money on CashApp.”
This isn’t the first time the “Shake Ya Ass” rapper has dealt with the Louisiana legal system. In 2003, Mystikal pleaded guilty to sexual battery and extortion, serving six years in prison. He also faced a 2012 arrest for domestic abuse and a 2017 case involving kidnapping and rape allegations that were eventually dismissed by prosecutors.
Despite the mounting legal issues, some figures in the hip-hop community previously called for his release. During the 2023 Lovers & Friends Festival in Las Vegas, Master P notably asked the audience to “put their hands up in the crowd in support of him.
Mystikal had been held without bond since last November. With the March 30 trial date now canceled due to the plea, the court will move forward with sentencing to determine how much of the 20-year maximum he will serve.
