Tory Lanez, known legally as Daystar Peterson, has been handed a 10-year prison sentence on Tuesday for the shooting incident involving fellow rapper Megan Thee Stallion in July 2020. Reports confirm that Los Angeles prosecutors had initially requested a 13-year sentence. The decision was delivered following a press conference by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office at 6:45 p.m. Eastern time.
The sentencing comes after Lanez was found guilty of three felony charges in December, relating to the shooting that injured Megan Thee Stallion, whose real name is Megan Pete. Lanez had been in custody since December and had his motion for a new trial denied in May.
During the court proceedings, Lanez addressed the incident, expressing care for Megan and admitting to his own immature behavior in the aftermath of the shooting. Megan, in a statement read by District Attorney Kathy Ta, explained her absence from the courtroom, citing the need to protect her mental health.
Megan accused Lanez of attempting to undermine her character through lies and manipulation, and also criticized his use of childhood trauma as a shield. She described her emotional turmoil since the shooting and Lanez’s subsequent actions, including releasing music videos and spreading false information.
Lanez’s defense attorneys had hoped for probation and enrollment in a drug treatment program. However, the final ruling means he will serve a 10-year prison sentence. The sentence also raises the possibility of his deportation to Canada, his native country.
Megan, in her statement, condemned Lanez’s actions and manipulation, recounting the details of the shooting incident. She explained that Lanez fired shots at her feet as she exited the SUV, injuring her. She further alleged that Lanez offered her money to remain silent about the incident. Megan had previously spoken out about her ordeal in Elle magazine, discussing her struggles with depression following the incident and the negative reactions from some in the music industry.
Numerous letters were submitted to the judge by Lanez’s friends and family, including one from fellow rapper Iggy Azalea, advocating for a transformative rather than life-destroying sentence.
Lanez’s sentencing marks a significant development in the case, highlighting the legal consequences of his actions and the impact on both his and Megan Thee Stallion’s lives.
Source: New York Post
