Michael Tyler popularly known as Mystikal is reportedly a free man after serving roughly 18 months behind bars. According to news sources, the longtime 48-year-old rapper from Louisiana was able to come up with the $3 million bond to secure his release.
The NOLA native reportedly earned the money from a fund set up by his friends and family and a new record contract. Last month, he reportedly secured a deal for three albums. At the time, Yazbeck revealed he was hopeful Mystikal would receive an advance to be able to afford the hefty bond set by a Louisiana judge.
“It’s been a long time coming for Mike,” attorney Tim Yazbeck said. “But now he can get back to being the artist he is, doing what he loves, and seeing his kids again.”
On August 21, 2017, Mystikal turned himself into the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Department after a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was subsequently indicted with first-degree rape and second-degree kidnapping and was held at the Caddo Correctional Center on a $3 million bond ever since he turned himself in.
One of Mystikal’s other attorneys, Joel Pearce, believes they have a strong case. “Based on all of the evidence we have, we strongly believe that an amicable resolution is not only possible but probable as an outcome in this case and that Michael Tyler will never be made to return to jail for a crime he didn’t commit.”
However, this was not his first encounter with law enforcement. On June 26, 2003, Mystikal pleaded guilty to sexual battery and extortion. On January 15, 2004, Mystikal was sentenced to six years in state prison after pleading guilty to forcing his hairstylist to perform sex acts. The rapper and two bodyguards forced the woman to perform oral sex, and accused her of stealing $80,000 in checks
He is one of the most successful soldiers in Master P’s No Limit army, even scored some crossover pop hits. He’s expected at trial this May.
