Key Points
- Bronx drill rapper Kay Flock (Kevin Perez) has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison.
- A Manhattan federal court issued the sentence following his March conviction.
- Prosecutors used the rapper’s lyrics as evidence, arguing they reflected real-world gang activity.
- Perez was convicted of racketeering conspiracy, attempted murder, assault, and firearm charges.
- The case raises major questions about the use of artistic expression in criminal trials.
Bronx Rapper’s High-Profile Case Reaches Its Conclusion
Bronx drill artist Kay Flock, whose legal name is Kevin Perez, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, closing a closely watched case that blended hip-hop culture, street violence, and legal scrutiny. The sentence was handed down Tuesday in Manhattan federal court, months after Perez was found guilty on multiple racketeering-related charges.
The ruling marks a significant moment for both the music industry and the legal system, as prosecutors leaned heavily on the rapper’s lyrics to support their case.
Prosecutors Tie Perez to Gang Activity
During the trial, federal prosecutors argued that Perez was a leader within the Bronx gang “Sev Side” or “DOA,” which they linked to a series of shootings and violent acts. While Perez was acquitted of a first-degree murder charge, the jury convicted him on all remaining counts, including racketeering conspiracy, assault, and firearm discharge connected to gang activity.
According to Rolling Stone, the prosecution’s narrative portrayed Perez as someone who used both violence and fame to intimidate rivals and escalate tensions in the Bronx.
Rap Lyrics Become Central Evidence
One of the most controversial elements of the case was the use of Perez’s own music as evidence. Prosecutors argued that his lyrics glorified gang violence and served as threats toward rivals. They claimed the songs were not fictional storytelling but reflections of real criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said Perez “used violence and fame to fuel fear,” asserting that his actions contributed to retaliatory shootings that harmed the community.
Judge Lewis J. Liman, who delivered the sentence, told Perez he had “taunted, celebrated, and created a culture of violence,” emphasizing the broader impact of his behavior.
A Warning Shot for the Drill Rap Scene
The case has sparked debate across the music industry, particularly within the drill rap community, where lyrics often depict gritty street realities. The sentencing underscores the legal risks artists may face when prosecutors interpret their work as confessions or evidence of criminal intent.
Perez’s career, which gained national attention with the hit “Shake It” featuring Cardi B, is now overshadowed by the conviction. The song was released after he had already been taken into custody on murder charges.
His legal team has not yet issued a public statement regarding the sentence.
What Happens Next?
Perez is expected to serve the majority of his 30-year sentence under federal guidelines. The case will likely continue to fuel discussions about artistic freedom, criminal liability, and the growing trend of prosecutors using rap lyrics in court. Industry observers anticipate renewed calls for legislation limiting the practice.
