Tsu Surf was one of the most respected battle rappers. The Newark-born performer was considered one of the kings of the scene. Furthermore, he had built up a loyal following, who loved him for his wordplay and unique stage presence. In recent years, he had also begun to add his voice to various mixtapes and collaborations. He was seen as an up-and-comer in mainstream spaces.
However, Surf gained a wider spotlight in 2022 when he engaged in a standoff with US Marshalls in New Jersey. Surf had been hit with RICO and firearms charges relating to his alleged involvement with the Rollin' 60s Neighborhood Crips. The initially tense incident ended peacefully with Surf surrendering to law enforcement. At the time, Surf maintained his innocence on all charges.
Surf To Be Sentenced in September
According to the Department of Justice, Surf plead guilty to all charges in federal court on April 28. The charges against Surf included conspiracy of racketeering and unlawful possession of a firearm. Surf is scheduled to be sentenced on September 12. According to a statement released by the DoJ, Surf's plea was related to charges dating back to 2015. "From 2015 through Sept. 22, 2022, Cox was a member of the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips, a criminal enterprise responsible for acts of violence and the distribution of controlled substances in New Jersey and elsewhere. Cox held a leadership role within the enterprise. On March 18, 2017, Cox shot a firearm at a gang rival. On July 24, 2019, in Essex County, New Jersey, Cox, a convicted felon, knowingly possessed two loaded firearms."
Furthermore, the rapper could be looking at up to 30 years in federal prison for the charges. Conspiracy of racketeering carries a 20-year maximum sentence, while unlawful possession of a firearm carries a 10-year sentence. Additionally, both charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000. However, it is unknown as to whether Surf will see reduced jail time in exchange for pleading guilty. Surf had previously pled not guilty to the RICO charges. Elsewhere, podcast Joe Budden, who had previously defended Surf, has not yet made a statement about the newest update in the case. Make sure you check HotNewHipHop for all things crime and hip-hop.
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