The Queen of Bounce is thankfully not going to jail, but she’s not exactly free just yet. Earlier in 2016, Big Freedia was charged with the crime of theft of government funds for accepting nearly $35,000 in housing assistance, despite being out of the income bracket to qualify for it. Following a guilty plea, Freedia will now receive three years probation as well as a a fine equaling the amount of money that was accepted on her behalf.
According to Pitchfork, since July, the bounce rapper has been court ordered to live in a halfway house, only being allowed to leave with the permission of a probation officer. New Orleans Advocate reporter Jim Mustian was in the courtroom relaying the events of the proceedings to Twitter.
Big Freedia's sentencing hearing now underway. U.S. District Judge Lance Africk has received a number of letters on her behalf
— Jim Mustian (@JimMustian) August 25, 2016
It was obvious that Freedia had many people in her corner and expressed sincere regret for the crimes she committed.
def. atty says Freedia "can't go back in time" to change events, referring to theft of federal housing dollars.
— Jim Mustian (@JimMustian) August 25, 2016
The atty , Vinny Mosca, describing Freedia's subst abuse and financial struggles. "Sometimes people have bad judgment. They make mistakes"
— Jim Mustian (@JimMustian) August 25, 2016
Big Freedia now addressing the judge, apologizing to supporters. "I am at fault for my criminal conduct."
— Jim Mustian (@JimMustian) August 25, 2016
Despite the judge’s grace, she warned Freedia to tread lightly.
"Please do not mistake kindness for weakness," judge tells Freedia. Warns her not to come back with a positive drug test
— Jim Mustian (@JimMustian) August 25, 2016
Hopefully, she can use this experience and dodging of hard time to work on positive things like bringing great music (and ass shaking) back into our lives once again.
For more on Big Freedia, check out our interview with the rapper about her memoir and her TV series.
