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Posted by Robert
Rap News Network
1/15/2004 6:23:30 PM
Tags and topics realted to this article include Mystikal.
Michael Tyler, better known as the Grammy-nominated rapper Mystikal, was sentenced Thursday to six years in prison for sexual battery for forcing his hair stylist to perform what the judge called "continuous sex acts."
The 33-year-old rapper originally faced up to 10 years, but received six in a plea agreement. He was taken from court in handcuffs to begin serving his time.
The victim accused Tyler and two bodyguards of forcing her to perform oral sex after they accused her of stealing $80,000 worth of his checks.
She denied stealing any money.
In imposing sentence, Judge Tony Marabella said he had seen a videotape that the men made of the events and said it was definitely not consensual. Marabella said the victim was "terrorized."
He said the victim had agreed to let the men receive reduced prison terms.
"If it weren't for the victim, his sentence would have been the maximum 10 years," Marabella said. "The court is convinced that the defendant believes he is above the law and can take the law into his own hands."
One bodyguard, Leland "Pokie" Ellis, 37, received three years. The other, Vercy "V" Carter, 35, got four.
All three men originally were charged with extortion; prosecutors dropped that count against the bodyguards. Tyler pleaded guilty to extortion and was sentenced earlier to five years of probation.
Tyler has paid the woman $350,000 - $300,000 of it borrowed from his record label, according to a letter in court records. It said the money and his plea show he is "continuing to try to make up to all involved for the distress" he caused.
The three pleaded guilty in June to sexual battery but later tried to withdraw the plea on grounds that the judge was biased because he saw the videotape.
That motion was withdrawn Thursday, leading to sentencing.
Mystical's record "Tarantula" was nominated for a best rap album Grammy in 2003.
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