The ongoing YSL RICO trial, now focused on two remaining codefendants, took an unexpected turn when Judge Paige Reese Whitaker accidentally read the n-word aloud during a court session. While quoting Instagram messages related to the case, the judge stumbled into the offensive word present in the exchanges. The incident occurred just before the court recessed for lunch.
Judge Whitaker immediately addressed the moment, issuing an on-the-record apology. “I hope that was not offensive to anyone,” she expressed, emphasizing that it was unintentional. “It was certainly not meant to be offensive to anyone. I do not use that word. And it was merely – I should have been looking first before I said whatever I said out loud to edit if there were, you know, any offensive words.” She further explained that it was the first time she had seen the conversations, which she read quickly.
The judge’s comments came as part of her explanation regarding the review process for messages central to the trial. Additionally, Judge Whitaker noted that she had not been provided with songs relevant to the case and indicated that the court would review them later.
While the slip caused a stir online, with some criticizing the judge’s actions, it is one of many challenges in what has become the longest criminal trial in Georgia’s history. Previous incidents include juror concerns over trial length and other courtroom tensions.
In the meantime, Young Thug, recently freed from custody, has kept a low profile, making a few appearances, such as a virtual meeting with Emory University law students and some interactions with industry peers.
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