TMZ reports that Tekashi 6ix9ine has formally pled not guilty to the federal charges of racketeering and firearm possession (among others) that have held the rapper in jail without bail since his arrest on November 18. Additionally, his trial has been set for September 4, 2019, with a preliminary conference scheduled for January 22.

Ahead of his official plea, 6ix9ine's lawyer reached out to the press to maintain his client's innocence. Speaking to Rolling Stone, he stipulated that the rapper is nothing more than "an entertainer who portrays a ‘gangster image’ to promote his music," invalidating any alleged criminal activity.

Tekashi 6ix9ine's album Dummy Boy was scheduled for release last week, though it has now been delayed indefinitely.

In other news, Meek Mill has penned an op-ed for the New York Times on criminal justice reform. Read his thoughts right here.