Controversial rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine has been released from a federal detention center, and his departure included an unusual souvenir: a SpongeBob SquarePants doll he claims was signed by former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
6ix9ine, whose legal name is Daniel Hernandez, completed a three-month sentence for probation violations on April 3. He was incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, a facility that has recently housed several high-profile inmates, including Maduro.
Prior to his surrender, the rapper told TMZ he hoped to pass the time in jail by playing cards and dancing with the former Venezuelan leader. It appears the two did cross paths, as 6ix9ine was photographed carrying the signed doll upon his release.
In an Instagram video documenting his exit, the rapper captioned the moment: "MADURO SINGNED MY JAIL HOUSE SPONGE9INE." The video also showed celebrity jeweler Vobara greeting him outside the facility and presenting him with a diamond chain valued at approximately $2.2 million.
6ix9ine's initial incarceration stemmed from a plea deal in a federal racketeering and firearms case. His latest sentence was related to violations of the terms of his probation.