Torrance Ivy Hatch Jr., widely known as Boosie Badazz, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for firearm possession, marking a significant and potentially final chapter in the rapper’s tumultuous legal saga. This recent decision follows a plea deal that many believe could sever his ties to the hip-hop industry indefinitely. The sentencing comes in the wake of a long history of legal troubles that began over a decade ago, highlighting the systemic issues faced by many in the Black community.
Boosie’s legal troubles date back to 2008 when he was arrested in East Baton Rouge for possession of marijuana and a handgun. Despite the seemingly routine nature of such offenses, Boosie’s third strike for marijuana possession escalated his situation, leading to multiple convictions and extended prison time. In 2011, while still incarcerated, he faced additional charges for attempting to smuggle drugs into prison, extending his sentence to nearly a decade.
His most infamous legal battle occurred in 2010 when he was indicted for the first-degree murder of Terry Boyd. The prosecution alleged that he orchestrated a murder-for-hire plot, a claim that rested heavily on questionable evidence. Ultimately, Boosie was acquitted of the murder charge after a swift jury deliberation, but the scars of his legal battles lingered on.
Despite his acquittal, Boosie remained trapped in the web of the judicial system. Following his release in 2014, he struggled to rebuild his life and career, constantly haunted by past convictions that barred him from legally possessing firearms. In 2019, he faced yet another arrest for gun possession during a traffic stop in Georgia, a precursor to the more severe federal charges that would follow.
The latest chapter in Boosie’s legal saga unfolded in May 2023 in San Diego, where he was arrested after authorities observed him with a firearm during an Instagram live stream. This incident led to state charges, which were later dismissed, only for federal agents to step in and arrest him on a felony firearm charge, citing his prior convictions. Boosie’s attorneys expressed concerns that his outspoken nature on social media had made him a target for federal prosecution.
Despite navigating through various legal hurdles and maintaining a commitment to his music, the emotional toll of the situation began to weigh heavily on him. His family played a crucial role in helping him realize the importance of prioritizing their well-being over pride. This culminated in Boosie accepting a plea deal in August 2025, a decision that sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community.
Under this plea deal, Boosie pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, with prosecutors recommending a two-year prison sentence. The plea agreement highlights the interstate nature of his crime, as he had purchased the firearms in Georgia before transporting them to California. His acceptance of the plea, though seen as a strategic move, was met with mixed reactions from fans and fellow artists.
As the November 21, 2025 sentencing date approaches, all eyes are on U.S. District Judge Kathy Anne Bencho, who will determine Boosie’s fate. The maximum penalty for his charge is 15 years, but prosecutors have recommended a two-year sentence, considering his community involvement and limited financial prospects. Boosie’s legal team has emphasized his desire to move forward and put this chapter behind him, but the emotional and financial strain of the ordeal remains palpable.
The narrative surrounding Boosie Badazz is one of resilience amidst adversity—a story that intertwines talent, street credibility, and the harsh realities of the judicial system. Whether this marks the end of his journey in the music industry or another chapter in his life remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Boosie’s struggle resonates deeply within the hip-hop community, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many in similar situations.