JAY-Z Interrupted His Dallas Show to Criticize Meek Mill’s Prison Sentence

JAY-Z is once again speaking out about Meek Mill's recent prison sentence, which has been roundly criticized as harsh and unfair. Last night, while on stage in Dallas for his 4:44 Tour, Jay halted his show to address the crowd about the sentencing.

"I've got to say something about a young man by the name of Meek Mill," he said to fans at the American Airlines Center. "He caught a charge when he was, like, 19. He's 30 now, he's been on probation for 11 years. Fucking 11 years. Judge gave him two to four years because he got arrested for being on a bike and popping a fucking wheelie. "

Meek was sentenced to two to four years in prison for probation violations. Judge Genece E. Brinkley  Brinkley cited Mill's two arrests this year (both cases were dismissed on the grounds that he complete community service) and also said Meek and his managers scheduling concerts that required travel despite the judge barring performances outside of Philadelphia or Montgomery County.

The ruling was largely criticized, as people point to the faults in the criminal justice system, particularly as it pertains to black men. Jay also spoke out against Meek's sentencing in a lengthy Facebook post late Monday night (Nov. 7).

"The sentence handed down by the Judge -- against the recommendation of the Assistant District Attorney and Probation Officer—is unjust and heavy handed," Jay wrote. "We will always stand by and support Meek Mill, both as he attempts to right this wrongful sentence and then in returning to his musical career."

The criminal justice system has been a recurring subject for the rapper/mogul this year. The JAY-Z-produced documentary TIME: The Kalief Browder Story aired on FX early this year. Jay also penned an essay for The Hollywood Reporter about social change in June.

Meek's lawyer has claimed the judge had a vendetta against the rapper and plans to appeal.