Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine is back on the streets and in typical fashion, he is making sure the world is watching. The Brooklyn native, born Daniel Hernandez, was released on Friday, April 3, 2026, from the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, after serving a three-month sentence for violating the terms of his supervised release.
Stepping out of the facility in a white sweatsuit and navy blue-and-white canvas slip-ons, 6ix9ine immediately drew attention to a bizarre souvenir from his time behind bars: a SpongeBob SquarePants plush toy he has dubbed “Sponge9ine.” The rapper claimed the toy was autographed by Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan leader who has reportedly been held at the same high-security facility since January 3, 2026, following his removal from Venezuela by the U.S. Military on charges including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
Showing the toy to cameras, 6ix9ine read the signature aloud: “Maduro, 2nd of April. Venezuela forever.” The rapper has since shared new details regarding his time with Nicolás Maduro, providing insights into his experience sharing a cell with the former leader. According to 6ix9ine, Maduro spent much of his time reading the Bible. However, the rapper didn’t hold back on the less glamorous aspects of their proximity, as he recalled the initial experience of Maduro’s arrival, claiming the former leader “smelled like sh**” when he first arrived.
The rapper’s recent stint in custody was the result of a 2025 violation in which he tested positive for MDMA and cocaine, leading authorities to remand him into custody. This marks the second time in just over a year that 6ix9ine has been jailed for breaching the conditions of his supervised release.
Despite his legal troubles, 6ix9ine ensured his exit was a high-fashion affair, wearing a necklace valued at $2.2 million, a stark contrast to the fact that his jewelry had been auctioned off a year prior.
The Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn has become a hub for high-profile detainees. In addition to Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, the facility has housed Sean “Diddy” Combs, Luigi Mangione, and Mexican drug traffickers Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada and Rafael Caro Quintero.
