AceShowbiz - Tekashi a.k.a. 6ix9ine has saved himself from a long stint in prison. As he is nearing his sentencing in his federal case, prosecutors have asked for a lighter sentence for the rapper following his cooperation with authorities.

United States Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman sent a letter to Judge Paul Engelmayer on Wednesday, December 4, in which he praised 6ix9ine for his "extraordinary" cooperation in the case. Berman said in the letter that the information provided by 6ix9ine allowed them to pursue "timely convictions for all defendants."

6ix9ine testified against his former Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods gang members, including his kidnapper Anthony "Harv" Ellison, in court. In his letter, Berman remarked, "[Daniel] Hernandez provided the Government with critical insight into the structure and organization of Nine Trey, identified the gang's key players, and described acts of violence that he personally witnessed or that he heard about from other Nine Trey members."

Berman additionally noted that the 23-year-old hip-hop star "testified in the face of threats of safety to him and his family." The prosecutor commended him for his truthfulness, his extensive assistance in this case and his timely cooperation with the government.

Tekashi's cooperation also led to the arrest of Denard "Drama" Butler, Kintea "Kooda B" McKenzie and Aljermiah "Nuke" Mack. For reasons mentioned above, Berman recommends 6ix9ine get reduced time in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 18.

6ix9ine pleaded guilty to nine charges, including racketeering and firearms charges. He faces a minimum of 47 years in prison, but could be released as soon as early 2020 for his cooperation. He reportedly has turned down an offer to get into the witness protection program once he's released in hopes of getting back to the music industry.