Investigators handling a cocaine trafficking case in Derby were stunned to receive an official request from the American rapper 50 Cent. The artist had petitioned a judge to grant bail to an individual under arrest so that the suspect could fulfill duties for his 2025 Legacy Tour.
These details emerged following the sentencing of 37-year-old Abdirahiim Hassan at Derby Crown Court. Hassan received an 18-and-a-half-year prison sentence for his role in a conspiracy to distribute Class A cocaine and for possessing criminal funds. Authorities confirmed there is no evidence suggesting 50 Cent was aware of Hassan’s illegal activities.
Hassan, who resided in London, was one of ten men convicted under Operation Daybreak. Prosecutors identified him as a significant participant in a national drug trafficking network. During his trial, Hassan claimed to live a high-profile life working for a major musician, a defense the court labeled as arrogant and dishonest.
The rapper’s letter, signed by Curtis Jackson, argued that Hassan was vital to the tour’s logistics, specifically managing food and beverage services. Detectives initially suspected the letter was a fabrication. However, the defense team later provided evidence including photographs of Hassan traveling on private jets and attending tour events, confirming his connection to the artist. Even after the initial bail request was denied, 50 Cent submitted a follow-up letter for the sentencing hearing, expressing his personal and professional support for Hassan and indicating that future employment would be available to him.
