Rapper Mystikal Pleads Guilty to Third-Degree Rape in Louisiana

The Grammy-nominated artist faces up to 25 years in prison for the 2022 incident.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The rapper Mystikal, whose real name is Michael Lawrence Tyler, has pleaded guilty to third-degree rape in an Ascension Parish, Louisiana courtroom. Tyler was arrested in 2022 for allegedly raping and choking a woman at his home in Prairieville. The 55-year-old performer, who received multiple Grammy nominations in the early 2000s, faces up to 25 years in jail without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15.

Why it matters

Mystikal's guilty plea is the latest high-profile case involving allegations of sexual assault against a celebrity. The rapper has a history of legal troubles, having previously pleaded guilty to sexual battery in 2003 and serving six years in prison. This case raises questions about accountability and rehabilitation for those accused of serious crimes.

The details

According to court records, Mystikal pleaded guilty to third-degree rape in an Ascension Parish courtroom on March 19, 2026. The charge stems from an incident in 2022 where he allegedly raped and choked a woman at his home in Prairieville, Louisiana, about 18 miles from Baton Rouge. Mystikal has been held without bond at the Ascension Parish Jail since his 2022 arrest.

  • Mystikal pleaded guilty on March 19, 2026.
  • He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2026.

The players

Mystikal

The 55-year-old rapper, whose real name is Michael Lawrence Tyler, is known for his Grammy-nominated hits in the early 2000s such as "Shake Ya A(asterisk)(asterisk)" and "Bouncin' Back (Bumpin' Me Against The Wall)".

Ascension Parish

The Louisiana parish where Mystikal pleaded guilty to third-degree rape and is being held without bond at the local jail.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Mystikal is scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2026, where he could face up to 25 years in prison without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual assault allegations against public figures and the need for accountability and rehabilitation, especially for repeat offenders like Mystikal who have a history of legal troubles related to sexual crimes.