Wiz Khalifa, the renowned rapper, has been handed a nine-month jail sentence in Romania after being found guilty of illegal drug possession. The incident dates back to July 2024 when Khalifa, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, was performing at the “Beach, Please!” festival in Costinesti, Romania. It was reported that he was in possession of more than 18 grams of cannabis and even consumed some of it while on stage. The Constanta Court of Appeal made the decision to sentence Khalifa on Thursday, Dec. 18, following his conviction for possessing dangerous drugs for personal consumption.
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As per the Associated Press and Romania’s national news agency, Agerpress, it remains uncertain whether Romanian authorities will push for an extradition request considering Khalifa is a U.S. citizen and does not reside in Romania. The rapper had previously been issued a criminal fine of 3,600 lei ($830) for illegal drug possession earlier in April 2025, a decision which was later challenged by the prosecutors who sought a stricter penalty. The judges in the Constanta Court of Appeal emphasized that the sentence was intended to serve as an example, highlighting Khalifa’s influential role in potentially normalizing illegal conduct, particularly among the youth.
After the festival incident in 2024, Khalifa took to social media to address the controversy, stating that he did not intend to show disrespect towards Romania by smoking marijuana on stage. He expressed appreciation for the country’s handling of the situation and pledged to return in the future without engaging in similar actions. The court’s final ruling following the appeals process further solidifies the legal repercussions faced by Khalifa in Romania, raising questions about the enforcement of the sentence given his citizenship and residency status.
The case involving Wiz Khalifa underscores the complexities surrounding international legal matters and the implications of celebrity influence on public behaviour. The judicial system’s handling of the drug possession charges against Khalifa sets a precedent for addressing similar cases in the future, especially those involving prominent individuals engaging in illegal activities. The rapper’s acknowledgment of the situation through social media also sheds light on the importance of accountability and respect for local laws and customs while performing in other countries.
As Wiz Khalifa navigates the legal repercussions of his actions in Romania, the music industry and his fanbase await further developments regarding his potential incarceration and its impact on his career. The consequences of the court’s decision extend beyond the rapper himself, serving as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with fame and the need to adhere to legal boundaries, regardless of one’s status in society. The evolving narrative surrounding Khalifa’s case highlights the intersection of personal choices, legal consequences, and public perception, emphasising the significance of upholding legal standards and respecting diverse cultural norms across borders.