Grammy-nominated rapper Mystikal, whose real name is Michael Lawrence Tyler, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for third-degree rape. The sentence follows his guilty plea in March 2024, which reduced the initial first-degree rape charge. The victim, who testified in court, described being punched, choked, and forcibly raped by Tyler at his Prairieville, Louisiana, home in 2022. She requested the maximum sentence, and Tyler acknowledged, 'If I did that to you, I deserve the max sentence.'
Tyler’s attorney attempted to withdraw the guilty plea days before sentencing, arguing insufficient time to consider consequences, but the motion was denied. The 20-year sentence aligns with the plea deal, which capped the maximum possible term at 25 years with no parole.
Tyler was previously convicted in 2003 for sexual battery, serving six years in prison. In 2017, he faced rape and kidnapping charges stemming from 2016 allegations but was released in 2019 after a $3 million bond. The charges were ultimately dropped in 2020 when a second grand jury declined to indict.
The 2022 incident also included allegations of robbery, domestic abuse, and false imprisonment. Court records indicate Tyler confiscated the victim’s keys and phone, prevented her from leaving, and forced her to transfer money via CashApp after the assault.