ATL Rapper Ca$h Out Sentenced To Life in Sex Trafficking Case
*UPDATED: July 21, 2025 at 12:30pm
ATLANTA, Ga. – Atlanta rapper Ca$h Out, whose real name is John Michael Hakeem Gibson, has been sentenced to life in prison following his conviction on charges including rape, aggravated sodomy, and sex trafficking. The sentencing, delivered on Monday, also includes an additional 70 years in prison for other charges, though some sentences will run concurrently.
As reported by 11Alive, the high-profile case, which exposed a years-long sex trafficking operation, concluded with the judge describing the evidence as showcasing “the very worst of human behavior.” Gibson, once known for hits like “Cashin’ Out” and “She Twerkin,” was found guilty of leading a criminal enterprise that exploited women through coercion and violence.
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Victim Impact Statements
During the sentencing, victims and their families shared emotional testimonies, detailing the trauma they endured. One victim described living in constant fear, stating, “For the rest of my life, I will fear that he will kill me, all because I wouldn’t do what he wanted me to do.” Families accused Gibson of using his fame and wealth to manipulate and harm women, with one parent saying he “literally stole the souls of all the women they victimized.”
Additional Sentencing Details
Gibson’s sentence includes conditions such as registering as a sex offender, no contact with victims or their families, and restrictions from certain areas in metro Atlanta. His co-defendants, including his mother Linda Smith (known as “Mama Ca$h”), received significant sentences as well. Smith was sentenced to 30 years in prison, while Tyrone Taylor, another co-defendant, received life plus 70 years.
Defense and Prosecution
Gibson maintained his innocence, claiming the jury made the “wrong judgment” and suggesting victims were coerced into testifying against him. His attorney argued for a lighter sentence, citing a pre-trial offer of 25 years, but the judge emphasized the severity of the crimes, stating the sentence was “responsive” to the “diabolical conduct” proven in court.
Prosecutors highlighted Gibson’s use of his record label, Pyrez Music Group LLC, to recruit and exploit women, describing the operation as a “reign of terror” lasting over seven years. Evidence included text messages, financial records, and testimonies from victims who were isolated, manipulated, and forced into prostitution.
This case has sparked widespread discussions about the abuse of power and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the Atlanta community.
