Justice for PnB Rock: Mastermind Behind Rapper's Slaying Sentenced

Freddie Lee Trone

Freddie Lee Trone, the man convicted of orchestrating the 2022 murder of rapper PnB Rock, was sentenced today to 31 years to life in prison. Trone was found guilty last month of sending his teenage son to carry out the fatal robbery at a South Los Angeles restaurant.

PnB Rock’s Girlfriend Posts A Heartfelt Video & Message For The 2 Year Anniversary Of His Passing #PnBRock
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— Real1Of1TV (@Real1of1TV) September 12, 2024

Trone, 42, did not pull the trigger himself, but the court found him guilty of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree robbery, and conspiracy to commit robbery. His son, who was 17 at the time of the shooting and is now 19, faces murder and robbery charges but remains in the juvenile system pending a competency hearing.

The tragic incident unfolded on September 12, 2022, at Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles. PnB Rock, whose real name was Rakim Hasheem Allen, was dining with his girlfriend when Trone's son entered the restaurant, demanded Allen's jewelry, and opened fire. The 30-year-old rapper, known for his hit "Selfish," died from his injuries.

PnB Rock’s fiancée Stephanie Sibounheuang gave harrowing testimony Tues. at trial over his 2022 murder

Outside court, Sibounheuang called PnB Rock “heroic” for pushing her under table after shooter threatened to “blow her head off”

Rolling Stone was only outlet in the courtroom pic.twitter.com/DwpwAS4PhN

— Nancy Dillon (@Nancy__Dillon) July 30, 2024

Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardson argued during the trial that Trone masterminded the robbery, driven by greed for Allen's valuable jewelry. Richardson emphasized that even a non-shooter can be held accountable for felony murder if they are a "major participant" who acts with "reckless indifference to human life."

Trone's defense team maintained his innocence, claiming he was merely an accessory after the fact. Trone himself took the stand, denying any involvement in the killing. However, the jury ultimately found him guilty on all counts.

The sentencing brings a measure of closure to PnB Rock's family and fans, who were shocked and saddened by his senseless death. Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón praised the jury's decision and the sentence, stating, "Justice has been served for Mr. Allen and his family."

PnB Rock, a rising star in the hip-hop world, left behind a legacy of music and a grieving family. His girlfriend, Stephanie Sibounheuang, revealed that he saved her life during the shooting, a testament to his courage and love.