Fetty Wap has officially been released from prison today after serving most of a six-year sentence tied to a high-profile drug trafficking case, his representatives confirmed. The Paterson, New Jersey, native exited custody this morning. This closes a chapter that began over three years ago. It thrust the Grammy-nominated artist into one of hip-hop’s most widely discussed legal battles.
In an exclusive statement, Wap tells The Shade Room, “I want to thank my family, friends, and fans for the love, prayers, and continued support—it truly means everything to me. Right now, my focus is on giving back through my community initiatives and foundation. I am supporting at-risk young children by expanding access to education, early tech skills, and vision care for young kids and students. This way they can show up as their best selves. I’m committed to moving forward with purpose and making a meaningful impact where it matters most.”
Federal Conviction and Sentence
Fetty Wap, who rose to fame with his 2015 hit “Trap Queen,” was arrested in October 2021 at Citi Field in Queens, New York, shortly before performing at the Rolling Loud festival. Federal prosecutors charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possess controlled substances. They alleged that between June 2019 and June 2020, he was involved in a drug trafficking operation. This operation moved more than 100 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine from the West Coast to Long Island and New Jersey.
In August 2022, Fetty Wap pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. This deal focused on the cocaine charge and allowed him to avoid potential life sentences on other counts. By May 2023, a federal judge in New York’s Eastern District sentenced him to six years in prison. He would also have five years of supervised release under strict court conditions.
Early Release and Time Served
Initially set to serve his sentence through 2027, Fetty Wap’s release date shifted several times. It culminated in today’s early release. His time in custody marked a significant interruption in a career that had been rising steadily through the 2010s.
Career and Cultural Impact
Fetty Wap first captured mainstream attention with “Trap Queen,” which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also earned Grammy nominations. The track propelled him into a string of successful singles and collaborations, cementing his place in contemporary hip-hop.
While earlier legal issues had surfaced during his career, none were as consequential as the 2021 federal case. This case sidelined him from music and public life for an extended period. It left a noticeable gap in his artistic output.
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