Remember the incident last year when unreleased music from Beyoncé’s team was stolen in Atlanta? Well, the man accused in the theft, Kelvin Evans, has now reached a resolution in his case. Instead of facing a full jury trial, Evans accepted a plea deal, significantly altering the potential outcome.
A Plea Deal Replaces Trial
Kelvin Evans pleaded guilty on May 12, 2026. Prosecutors had a strong case, including surveillance video showing the theft from a parking garage on Krog Street in July 2025. This footage was set to be key evidence had the case gone to trial.
However, prosecutors acknowledged a ‘sense of uncertainty’ regarding a jury trial, noting that some evidence was circumstantial. This led them to offer a plea recommendation, which Evans ultimately accepted. He had previously rejected earlier deals.
Sentencing and Previous Offenses
Evans was facing up to six years in prison. With the accepted plea deal, he received a two-year sentence. Since his arrest in September 2025, he will receive credit for time already served. However, the exact amount of jail time he’ll serve remains somewhat unclear.
During the court hearing, it was revealed that Evans has a prior parole violation and over six other car break-in cases. These previous offenses complicate the final sentencing details.
What Was Stolen?
The theft occurred just two days before Beyoncé’s first ‘Cowboy Carter’ tour stop in Atlanta. Two individuals, claiming to be part of Beyoncé’s team, reported that two suitcases were stolen from their Jeep Wagoneer after the rear window was broken. The stolen items included jump drives with unreleased, watermarked Beyoncé music, show planning documents, set lists, two laptops, designer sunglasses, and Apple AirPods Max headphones.
Evans’ defense attorney stated that his client is taking responsibility and hopes to move forward with a legitimate future. Ultimately, Kelvin pleaded guilty to one count of entering an automobile, receiving a five-year sentence (two years in prison, three on probation). The second count, criminal trespass, was merged into the first. He is not eligible for parole.
What are your thoughts on the resolution of the Kelvin Evans case involving Beyoncé’s stolen music? Share your opinions in the comments below!