Last month Atlanta rapper T.I. took the stand in a Cincinnati courtroom and testified that shots fired on May, 3, 2006 were meant for him, not his friend and assistant Philant Johnson, who was killed during the shootout. A jury found Hosea Thomas guilty of murder, felonious assault and illegally having a gun after a felony conviction and Judge Ralph Winkler sentenced the 34-year-old to 66 years to life on Tuesday. Thomas will not be eligible for release until 2074, when he will be 100 years old.
T.I. has publicly stated that the death of his close friend sparked his decision to purchase firearms, which resulted in federal gun charges. The rapper will serve one year in federal prison for in 2009.
"(Thomas) gave Philant Johnson a death sentence, and his family -- he gave them a death sentence as well," the judge said while handing down Thomas' sentence. "All of his crimes have been cowardly and senseless. ... You could say he's the poster boy for gun violence in Cincinnati."
Reader Comments(1 of 1)
tamihunter45at 12-28-2008
Nothing surprises me more than rappers/ blacks with guns killing each other. It's just plain shocking. NOT!
grownandsexymamiat 1-20-2009
HALLELUJAH!!! Thank you Jesus! I lost my dear friend and nothing can bring him back but at least justice was served. Rest in peace Phil, I love you always....
exquzitat 3-27-2009
tamihunter45--I guess that would be a true statement but then again coming from some white boys really doesn't mean a damn thing. What's new some white boy pointing fingers, well look at your race and culture before you comment on what others do.
I think whites are cowards, let's see most of you molest children, are rapist, serial killers... Look at the people you take advantage of children and women not too mention most of you are full of fear.
bobbybabootsat 3-27-2009
Well said!
omgitzltreat 3-28-2009
thank you!