The rapper and Instagram star known as Tekashi 6ix9ine has had multiple run-ins with law enforcement and is no stranger to courtrooms. But on Tuesday, wearing a navy blue prison jumpsuit in federal court in Manhattan, he took on a new role: as a government witness, testifying against his former crew, the Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods.
On trial are two former confidantes, including Anthony Ellison, who prosecutors say is a member of the Nine Trey gang. Mr. Ellison is accused of kidnapping 6ix9ine last year as part of an internal power struggle over his lucrative career.
Tuesday’s testimony was a remarkable plot twist for 6ix9ine — born Daniel Hernandez — who had spent the entirety of his short career cultivating a brand as an unrepentant public nuisance.
