Mandy
Bronx rapper Kay Flock, whose real name is Kevin Perez, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison.
The sentence was handed down on Tuesday following his conviction in a wide-ranging federal racketeering case tied to gang-related violence in New York City.
Details Of The Criminal Case
In February 2023, Perez faced charges connected to the fatal shooting of Hwascar Hernandez, which occurred on December 16, 2021, in Upper Manhattan.
Although a jury acquitted Perez of first-degree murder in March, he was still found guilty on multiple serious federal counts.
The jury convicted Perez of:
- Racketeering conspiracy
- Attempted murder in aid of racketeering
- Assault with a deadly weapon in aid of racketeering
- Firearm discharge offense
These convictions stemmed from his federal indictment, which focused on gang-related activity rather than the standalone murder charge.
Prosecutors Highlight Pattern Of Violence
Federal prosecutors argued that Perez played a central role in ongoing gang violence across the Bronx.
According to authorities, the crimes involved retaliatory shootings that harmed not only rival gang members but also innocent bystanders.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton of the Southern District of New York said that Perez used both violence and celebrity to spread fear.
Prosecutors emphasized that he allegedly used his music platform to glorify shootings, threaten rivals, boast about violent acts, and mock victims—behavior they say fueled additional bloodshed.
Music Career Rose During Legal Trouble
Despite mounting legal issues, Kay Flock’s music career continued to gain traction. His breakout drill track “Shake It,” featuring Cardi B, was released in April 2022, about four months after he was charged in connection with Hernandez’s killing.
The song helped elevate his profile nationally, even as his criminal case moved forward.
The 30-year sentence for Kay Flock marks a significant outcome in one of the most high-profile federal racketeering prosecutions involving a rising rap artist.
While Perez avoided a murder conviction, the jury’s findings on racketeering and violent offenses ultimately led to decades behind bars.
Prosecutors framed the case as a warning about the intersection of gang violence, firearms, and public influence, particularly when fame is used to promote or normalize criminal behavior.
FAQs
Why was Kay Flock sentenced if he was acquitted of murder?
Although acquitted of first-degree murder, he was convicted on multiple federal racketeering and violent crime charges, which carried heavy prison penalties.
What charges led to the 30-year sentence?
The sentence was based on convictions for racketeering conspiracy, attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and a firearm discharge offense.
Did Kay Flock release music while facing charges?
Yes. His hit song “Shake It” featuring Cardi B was released in April 2022, months after he was charged in the Hernandez case.