American hip-hop artist Wiz Khalifa has been sentenced to nine months in prison by a Romanian court for a drug-related offense. The conviction, delivered in absentia, stems from an incident during a live performance at a music festival in Costinești, Romania, in July 2024. Khalifa, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, was accused of smoking cannabis on stage, which is prohibited in Romania.
The initial judgment imposed a fine of 3,000 lei, approximately $690, but prosecutors from the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism appealed, seeking a harsher penalty. The appellate court ultimately replaced the fine with a nine-month jail term for illegal possession of a high-risk drug for personal use. This decision is reportedly final under Romanian law.
Khalifa was briefly detained and released after the incident, and later issued a public apology, stating that his actions were not intended to disrespect Romanian laws or culture. The rapper is currently based in the United States, and it remains to be seen whether Romanian authorities will seek his extradition.
Romania has strict anti-drug laws, with cannabis prohibited for both recreational and medical purposes. The country’s legislation is designed to combat drug use and trafficking, and offenders can face severe penalties, including imprisonment. The sentencing of a high-profile figure like Wiz Khalifa highlights the seriousness with which Romanian authorities approach drug-related offenses.
The incident has drawn attention to the varying laws and regulations surrounding cannabis use globally. While some countries have legalized or decriminalized cannabis, others, like Romania, maintain strict controls. The case also raises questions about the potential consequences for individuals, particularly public figures, who violate these laws while traveling or performing abroad.
As the situation unfolds, it is unclear whether Wiz Khalifa will face extradition or serve his sentence in the United States. The development is likely to be closely watched by fans and industry observers, given the rapper’s international reputation and the implications for his career. For now, the sentencing serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting local laws and regulations, particularly when it comes to sensitive issues like drug use.
