Quando reflects on his time behind bars and his path to rehabilitation
Quando Rondo has officially started serving his 33-month sentence for federal drug charges at the Federal Correction Institution Elkton in Lisbon, Ohio. The Savannah, Georgia rapper, born Tyquian Bowman, was sentenced in December after pleading guilty to a single count of conspiracy to possess and distribute marijuana. Initially facing a five-year sentence, Rondo received a reduced sentence of two years and nine months, a $40,000 fine, and three years of probation upon release.
Along with these conditions, Rondo will be subject to drug testing, mental health counseling, and required educational training during his sentence. Despite the circumstances, the rapper expressed his positive outlook, telling local ABC affiliate WJCL that he views this time as an opportunity for growth.
“As crazy as it sounds, that’s enough time to really sit down, rehabilitate myself, come up with some better plans, come out and move forward for my family and friends,” he said. He also emphasized his desire to be a role model for the youth, encouraging them to choose a positive path in life.
Rondo was initially charged with more serious crimes related to drug conspiracy and gang activity. Still, he later struck a deal with prosecutors and pled guilty to the lesser charge of conspiracy to possess and distribute marijuana. He has previously expressed remorse for his past actions, stating that he is working hard to be a better person for himself and his community.
In addition to his prison sentence, Rondo is dealing with an open DUI case following a high-speed crash in July 2023, where he was reportedly showing signs of an overdose. He has pleaded not guilty in the case and has never publicly commented on the overdose reports. However, he recently celebrated eight months of sobriety, marking a positive milestone in his recovery journey.