PARIS: French rapper MHD, known for pioneering afro-trap music, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for his involvement in the 2018 murder of a young man in Paris.
MHD, whose real name is Mohamed Sylla, was found guilty of homicide in connection with a violent altercation in 2018.
The victim, Loic K, was struck by a car, attacked by a mob, and fatally stabbed in a Parisian neighborhood.
MHD was one of six defendants sentenced, with prison terms ranging from 10 to 18 years, in what prosecutors described as a clash between rival gangs.
Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the trial, MHD was convicted and sentenced.
ALSO READ: Wife of ‘That ’70s Show’ Actor Seeks Divorce After Rape Sentence
Several women in the courtroom reacted emotionally to the verdict, while MHD remained composed.
The rapper was initially charged in January 2019 and spent a year and a half in custody before being released as investigations continued. He subsequently released a new album.
The convicted individuals have a 10-day window to appeal the verdict.
The incident occurred in a low-income neighborhood in Paris, where MHD continued to visit despite his rising fame.
MHD, born in France to Guinean and Senegalese parents, gained international recognition for his afro-trap music, receiving praise from artists like Drake and Madonna.
The verdict marks a significant legal development in the case that has garnered widespread attention in France and the music industry.
