Wu-Tang Affiliate Shyheim Released From Prison After Serving Five Years

Welcome home to the Rugged Child.

BYErika Marie
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Dimitrios Kambouris / Staff / Getty Images

When Shyheim Franklin was just 14-years-old, he released his first album, AKA the Rugged Child. One of the tracks on his debut project was produced by RZA, and later, the rapper would become known as an affiliate of the Wu-Tang as he frequently collaborated with a few of the iconic hip hop group's members and is reportedly Ghostface Killah's cousin.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B43JuXhFv6Z

However, Shyheim ran into trouble with the law back in 2013 after a police search of his home reportedly turned up heroin and a firearm. The following year, the rapper was reportedly involved in a New Year's Day car accident in the wee hours of the morning that resulted in the death of another driver named Felip Avila.

Shyheim was accused of crashing into Avila's Toyota and possibly another vehicle before fleeing the scene. He later turned himself in and pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter. Additionally, he also pleaded guilty to the drugs and weapons charges. The Source now reports that after serving his five-year bid, Shyheim is a free man.

It's reported that Shyheim was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the manslaughter charge and another seven for the gun charge. The rapper shared his excitement about his release on Instagram. "Been waiting so long for this moment ! Finally free spending time with my daughter," he wrote. Check out a few images below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6_4NHjA4cC

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzETy-OlRPm


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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.