In a dramatic turn of events tied to Super Bowl LIX, the halftime performer who made headlines by unfurling a protest flag has now been convicted on a criminal charge. Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu, 41, was found guilty of resisting an officer by Chief Judge Juana Marine-Lombard, according to the Associated Press. The ruling came on the misdemeanor count, while an initial charge of disturbing the peace by interruption of a lawful assembly was also filed at the time of the incident.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill praised the court's decision, stating, "We appreciate the chief judge's careful consideration of the evidence and the decision to hold this individual accountable for resisting law enforcement officers who work every day to protect our communities."

The controversy unfolded during Super Bowl LIX's halftime show, when Nantambu unfurled a flag reading "Sudan and Free Gaza" before attempting to flee. He ignored direct orders to stop, leading to his immediate arrest on the field. The NFL has since banned him from all league events for life.

Nantambu's sentencing is scheduled for June 1, where he faces up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $500. In a separate and unrelated incident, Nantambu is also the alleged victim in a May 2025 shooting involving former NFL wide receiver Antonio Brown, who admits to firing a weapon but claims self-defense.