Rapper 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, wrote a letter to a judge in support of Abdirahiim Hassan, a man he described as a trusted associate and employee, who was seeking bail to participate in a European tour. Hassan was ultimately jailed at Derby Crown Court.
Detectives initially expressed skepticism when Hassan's defense team submitted the bail application, which included the rapper's support. "When you get something like that come in, it's quite a unique moment and I think the team were a little bit shocked," said Ian Green, a detective involved in the case, as quoted by the BBC. Green added that investigators initially thought the request might be fake.
However, Hassan's defense team later presented photos and videos that appeared to show him on private jets and at U.S. tour dates, supporting the bail application. The rapper also provided a letter for the sentencing hearing, part of Hassan's mitigation.
In his letter, 50 Cent stated he had "known and worked closely with him for many years, both professionally and personally." He emphasized his reliance on Hassan in his own business and commended his character based on years of firsthand experience. While acknowledging the seriousness of the charges Hassan faced, the rapper offered an "honest account of the man I have come to know."
50 Cent further stated in the letter that "employment will be available" to Hassan upon his release, adding, "His experience, reliability and understanding of the work make him someone I would welcome back without hesitation."