Fetty Wap, the rapper best known for his chart-topping hit "Trap Queen," has made headlines with his unexpected early release from federal prison. On January 7, 2026, 2026-01-09 20:08:10, news broke that Fetty Wap, whose real name is Willie Junior Maxwell II, had been released from a federal prison in Sandstone, Minnesota . This development comes as a surprise to many, given that he was sentenced to six years in prison in May 2023 for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy .
Fetty Wap's legal troubles began in 2022 when he pleaded guilty to federal drug charges in New York. He was incarcerated since August 2022 and sentenced to six years in prison for his role in a drug trafficking ring, specifically for conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine . The rapper's plea deal and subsequent sentence were a significant turn in his career, which had seen him rise to fame with hit songs like "Trap Queen" .
Fetty Wap's incarceration was initially expected to last until 2029, but his early release has raised questions about the terms of his confinement and the reasons behind his premature departure from prison. According to sources, Fetty Wap was moved to home confinement, where he will serve out the remainder of his sentence under less restrictive conditions . This move is part of a broader trend in the U.S. prison system, where certain non-violent offenders are being released early due to overcrowding and to alleviate the financial burden on the prison system .
The early release of Fetty Wap has sparked a mix of reactions from fans and critics alike. Some view it as a second chance for the rapper to redeem himself and continue his musical career, while others question the fairness of the decision given the severity of his crimes. The rapper’s legal team has not released an official statement regarding the terms of his early release or his plans for the future. However, it is expected that Fetty Wap will continue to make music and re-engage with his fans, leveraging his past success to rebuild his career.
