On Monday, popular rap artist Meek Mill was sentenced to up to four years in prison for apparently violating his probation. This sort of punishment for a seemingly minor violation has been frowned upon for many years, as most individuals consider the repercussion excessive. Almost immediately following the breaking news, celebrities took to social media to voice their concerns and support for the young rap star.
BREAKING: Rapper Meek Mill sentenced to 2 – 4 years in state prison for probation violations. @CBSPhilly
pic.twitter.com/5oeZky07Up— Joe Holden (@JoeHoldenCBS3) November 6, 2017
Most notable of those supporters is rap legend Jay-Z, who posted to Facebook immediately after hearing the news.
The sentence handed down by the Judge — against the recommendation of the Assistant District Attorney and Probation…Posted by JAY-Z on Monday, November 6, 2017
The sentencing reportedly stems from incidents in the artist's past, some as recent as this year. Earlier this year Meek, whose actual name is Robert Rihmeek Williams, was arrested for an altercation at a St. Louis airport, but charges were dropped. Then, a few months later, he was arrested for reckless endangerment this summer, to which he pleaded guilty last month. Empathizing as a celebrity who has also faced issues with the justice and prison systems, T.I. offered his support to Meek via Instagram.
Other celebrities have continued to chime in to support Meek while drawing attention to what seems to be an unjust and unreasonable punishment, an issue within our justice system often overlooked. Fellow Philly native Kevin Hart voiced his support as well.
The rallying behind the rapper doesn't seem to be coming to a halt anytime soon as more voices are publicly sharing their support for Meek Mill and the call to action for justice reform. Allies such as Angie Martinez, Nipsey Hussle, Isaiah Thomas and more are uniting to stand behind the rapper in his time of need.
