Key Takeaways
- Flint rapper Rio Da Yung OG was released from federal prison on December 8, 2024, after serving a five-year sentence for firearm and drug trafficking charges.
- Despite his incarceration, Rio maintained relevance in the hip-hop scene, consistently releasing music and receiving support from fans and fellow artists.
Flint rapper Rio Da Yung OG was officially released from federal prison on December 8, 2024.
It marks the end of a challenging chapter in his life and begins a highly anticipated return to the music scene.
Details About His Arrest
Rio Da Yung OG, born Da’mario Donshay Horne-McCullough, had been serving a five-year federal prison sentence since 2021 after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The charges were from a 2019 arrest and subsequent plea deal.
Flint Rapper Rio Da Yung Og Is Expected To Be Released From Prison On Sunday After Serving 3 Years & 8 Months pic.twitter.com/8nIXD0RQXc
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) December 6, 2024
Throughout his incarceration, Rio’s music and legacy continued to grow.
Fans and fellow artists rallied behind him with the “Free Rio” movement, a testament to his impact on the hip-hop world.
Support poured in from notable names like Trippie Redd, Louie Ray, 42 Dugg, BabyTron, and Peezy, who even dedicated an entire mixtape titled “Free Rio.”
Fans React to Rio’s Release
Rio’s release sparked excitement across social media platforms, with fans expressing their joy and anticipation for his next steps.
One Reddit user wrote,
“3 years and 8 months went by fast. Welcome home concert is January 11th.”
Via Reddit
Another added,
“Awesome! Been waiting for this, there’s nothing like Flint/Beecher hip-hop.”
Via Reddit
A third fan noted Rio’s unique ability to stay relevant during his time in prison, saying,
“Wild he actually recorded enough to keep dropping consistently the whole time he was locked up. Not sure there are many rappers that actively got bigger while in jail.”
Via Reddit
Redemption Story
Despite the legal challenges, Rio Da Yung OG remained a prolific artist, consistently releasing music that resonated with his growing fanbase.
His ability to dominate the hip-hop scene even from behind bars speaks to his talent and dedication.
Rio Da Yung OG will officially be home in a couple days after serving 3 years & 8 months!!
— SAY CHEESE! 👄🧀 (@SaycheeseDGTL) December 7, 2024
Before he went in.. you could’ve got an EP with him for $35,000 it came with 8 songs.. 3 music videos, full promo & 70% royalties on the backend! pic.twitter.com/vC9MQCyaoY
As noted in court documents, Rio’s case also highlighted his past struggles and decisions.
These emphasized his minimal criminal history, a stable employment record at Chrysler before his rap career, and his efforts to support his family.
RIO DA YUNG OG “What Do Rio Mean / Definition Of Rio” (2021) pic.twitter.com/YJUj07geUs
— Fyeclips *Sethy P (@fyeclip2) July 27, 2024
Rio himself reflected on his journey in an Instagram post during his sentencing:
“I’m doing 5 years for some st I ain’t know was going on, but I take full responsibility cause I know what comes wit this street st. Thank you god for putting me through this situation cause it really opened my eyes and showed me how to deal wit people.”
Via Instagram
In Case You Didn’t Know
- On the right side of his face, Rio da Yung OG has visible facial scarring due to deep second-degree burns.
- He is signed to record label Boyz Entertainment, started by rapper Peezy.
- Rio was born on May 11, 1994, making him 30 years old.
