Hours after news broke that “Love & Hip Hop” star Mendeecees Harris was sentenced to 97 months in prison for trafficking cocaine and heroin through Rochester, New York, the 37-year-old usedts, shortly after the Judge Frank Geraci Jr. handed down the sentence, Harris stood up in court and apologized to the city of Rochester as his wife and reality show co-star, Yandy Smith, looked on with their 10-month-old daughter, Skylar, in tow.
Harris later posted the following inspirational message on Instagram :
“I want you all to understand something. I completely accept responsibility for all that is going on. My transition to be a better person a productive person started well before this case. However in my past I made some bad decisions. Young men let my life be an example to you now before it’s too late. Better who you are now in your children’s lives and in society so you can change the path of your fate. Lack of opportunities, a fatherless home, the unforgiven neighborhood and circumstances you grew up in can no longer be your excuse. Trust me I tried. And it doesn’t make the pain your family feels any different. Young man educate your self and break the cycle. Don’t become a number on the DOA (dead on arrival) list or on the incarceration list. To my wife and children you are all strong and well prepared for this. This is just another brick laid down towards our house of happily ever after , walk with your head held high knowing I would never past the buck and put another family through what we have endured. Continue to walk in faith and love as you’ve done so well. To my peoples thank you for all the encouragement and support please continue to encourage my family. Thank you again all.”
There are a couple things working in Harris’ favor that could have him released from federal prison early.
Prior to making bail, Harris served 15 months, which should go toward his sentence. With good behavior, he may be looking at five or six years behind bars, and even that could be reduced because of possible changes made to the sentencing guidelines for drug-related crimes that are currently being considered.
In the meantime, Judge Geraci has allowed Harris to remain free until the Federal Bureau of Prisons informs him where he’ll be incarcerated and when to report to the prison.
