On Tuesday, Love and Hip Hop: New York star Mendeecees Harris was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for drug trafficking. His wife, Yandy Harris-Smith and the couple’s 10 month old daughter Skylar sat in the courtroom while the judge announced the verdict. Back in April, the 37 year old reality star and movie producer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess heroin and cocaine.
According to prosecutors, Harris was involved in drug trafficking from 2005 until 2012 in Rochester, New York. Harris has remained free on $600,000 bail. A judge ordered Harris to pay restitution by surrendering his checks from Love and Hip Hop, which totaled $171,000, along with earnings made from paid appearances. Harris also agreed to forfeit a 2011 Audi R8 sports car worth $111,000.
Harris’ attorney Donald Thompson spoke with Billboard stating, “The possibility of a jail sentence has been well known in the community, and he’s talked about that with kids who are coming up in difficult situations and have to make life choices, whether it’s a good idea to make a whole lot of money selling drugs or make less money and not have to be looking over your shoulder.”
Harris took to Instagram to express his regret in a lengthy message writing, “I want you all to understand something. I completely accept responsibility for all that is going on. My transition to be a better person a productive person started well before this case. However in my past I made some bad decisions. Young men let my life be an example to you now before it’s too late. Better who you are now in your children’s lives and in society so you can change the path of your fate. Lack of opportunities, a fatherless home, the unforgiven neighborhood and circumstances you grew up in can no longer be your excuse. Trust me I tried. And it doesn’t make the pain your family feels any different. Young man educate your self and break the cycle. Don’t become a number on the DOA (dead on arrival) list or on the incarceration list. To my wife and children you are all strong and well prepared for this. This is just another brick laid down towards our house of happily ever after , walk with your head held high knowing I would never past the buck and put another family through what we have endured. Continue to walk in faith and love as you’ve done so well. To my peoples thank you for all the encouragement and support please continue to encourage my family. Thank you again all.”
Yandy also took to Instagram to express her gratitude writing, “Thank you for your continued support. You have no idea how much your love and encouragement means. We finally have closure and are prepared and ready for all the future holds. God and love always prevails. Thank you God for family and love.”
