On January 20, 2021 President Donald Trump granted pardons to 73 individuals and commuted the sentences of an additional 70 individuals. Of those included ex-mayor of Detroit Kwame Kilpatrick, rapper Kodak Black, and rapper Lil Wayne.
President Trump is scheduled to leave the White House early Wednesday morning January 20, 2021 so the new President Joe Biden can take over.
President Trump granted a commutation to Bill Kapri, more commonly known as Kodak Black. Kodak Black is a prominent hip hop artist and community leader. Kodak Black was sentenced to 46 months in prison for making a false statement on a federal document. He has served nearly half of his sentence. Before his conviction and after reaching success as a recording artist, Kodak Black became deeply involved in numerous philanthropic efforts.
This commutation is supported by numerous religious leaders, fellow rappers, and a player on the Baltimore Ravens team. Kodak Black annually provides for underprivileged children during Christmas. Most recently while still incarcerated, Kodak Black donated $50,000 to a special fund for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
LIL WAYNE
President Trump granted a full pardon to Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., also known as “Lil Wayne.” The rapper pled guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, owing to a conviction over 10 years ago. The White House says Lil Wayne has exhibited generosity through a commitment to a variety of charities, including donations to research hospitals and a host of food banks.
Lil Wayne met with President Trump days before the November 3, 2020 presidential election to discuss an economic proposal designed to help Black business owners.
According to the White House, NFL great Deion Sanders wrote in support of Lil Wayne’s pardon and calls the rapper “a provider for his family, a friend to many, a man of faith, a natural giver to the less fortunate, a way maker, [and] a game changer.”
EX DETROIT MAYOR
President Trump commuted the sentence of the former Mayor of Detroit Kwame Kilpatrick. This commutation is strongly supported by prominent members of the Detroit community, Pastor Paula White, congressional officials, and more than 30 faith leaders. Kwame has served approximately 7 years in prison of a 28 year sentence for his role in a racketeering and bribery scheme while he held public office.
During his incarceration, Kwame taught public speaking classes and led Bible Study groups with his fellow inmates.
