Rapper Formerly Known As Loon Granted Early Release From Prison

Amir Junaid Muhadith, formerly known as Bad Boy Records rapper Loon, has been granted an early release from prison after nearly nine years in prison.

The rapper, who was born Chauncey Hawkins before changing his name in 2008 after converting to Islam, filed for an “instant compassionate release” in June, citing the coronavirus pandemic as the primary reason for release.

In his motion, Loon, 45, explained that his ongoing battle with latent tuberculosis, in addition to suffering from “multiple bouts each of acute laryngopharyngitis, acute bronchitis, and bronchopneumonia,” puts his life at risk amid the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Luckily, a judge agreed.

U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle ruled that the rapper’s health issues were an “extraordinary and compelling” reason for release. He also granted the rapper time served, explaining that he was no longer considered a danger to society.

He was originally scheduled to be released in August 2021.

Loon was arrested in Belgium back in 2012 and later extradited to the U.S. for drug trafficking. He pleaded guilty in 2013 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison, with four years of supervised release.