Canadian rapper Tory Lanez has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his involvement in the shooting of US artist Megan Thee Stallion.
The sentencing took place on Tuesday in Los Angeles, following Lanez’s conviction for assault and firearm-related charges in December.
Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion in the feet during a drunken argument that took place after a Hollywood party.
The incident, which occurred in July 2020, involved Lanez ordering the hip-hop star to “Dance, bitch” before firing multiple shots at her while she was standing on the road.
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The sentencing came after a protracted hearing that began on Monday. Judge David Herriford considered various factors, including the severity of the crime and the impact on the victim.
Prosecutors had sought a 13-year sentence, asserting that Lanez had caused physical and emotional harm to Megan Thee Stallion.
Lanez’s defense team had requested probation or a three-year prison sentence along with mandatory rehab, including treatment for alcohol addiction.
The court received more than 70 letters on Lanez’s behalf, including those from his celebrity friends.
However, Judge Herriford ultimately handed down a 10-year prison term.
The judge acknowledged that the prosecution had proven aggravating factors related to weapon use and a vulnerable victim, but he did not find evidence to support the claim of a high degree of cruelty, viciousness, or callousness in the crime.
The incident took place after a party at Kylie Jenner’s luxury home, where Lanez, Megan Thee Stallion, and her friend Kelsey Harris were present.
The court learned that an argument erupted in the car, with Megan Thee Stallion demanding to be let out. The rapper stated that she saw Lanez pointing a gun at her and firing shots after commanding her to dance.
During the trial, Megan Thee Stallion expressed how the incident had affected her life and reputation in the male-dominated rap world.
She revealed feeling like a “villain” and shared that she had not experienced a single day of peace since the shooting.
