AceShowbiz - Mystikal has been sentenced to 20 years behind bars after pleading guilty to third-degree rape, MediaTakeOut reports. The incident took place in 2022 at his Prairieville, Louisiana residence, near Baton Rouge.

The Guardian also detailed that Mystikal, whose real name is Michael Lawrence Tyler, faced original charges including first-degree rape, simple robbery, domestic abuse battery, and false imprisonment. His plea deal reduced the charge from first-degree to third-degree rape, limiting his sentence to 20 years instead of a mandatory life term. CNN confirms that the victim appeared in court prior to sentencing, urging the judge to impose the maximum punishment while describing the assault, which involved physical violence such as punching, choking, and forcibly detaining her. Mystikal acknowledged in court that if the allegations were true, he deserved the harshest sentence. MediaTakeOut and CNN both note that Mystikal had been held without bond at Ascension Parish Jail since his arrest.

Days before his sentencing, Mystikal attempted to withdraw his guilty plea, claiming he had insufficient time to weigh the consequences, per MediaTakeOut and Wafb. However, the court dismissed this motion, and Wafb further reports that he later sought to retract that withdrawal request as well.

Mystikal is known for his 1990s rise to fame as a rapper, particularly for the 2000 hit "Shake Ya Ass," which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance. He also received two Grammy nods in 2003, including one for his album "Tarantula." His career has been marred by previous legal troubles, including a 2003 conviction for sexual battery that led to six years in prison and a 2017 rape and kidnapping charge that was eventually dropped.

This sentencing marks a significant legal development for Mystikal, underscoring the serious consequences of his recent conviction. The 20-year term reflects both the severity of the crime and the plea deal’s impact, concluding a high-profile case that has drawn attention to the rapper’s troubled legal history and personal conduct.

This article is based on reporting originally published by MediaTakeOut.