Following T.I.’s return to prison last week, his wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle is speaking out in defense of her husband, saying he was targeted because of his fame.

Tiny tells TMZ that prison officials are trying to make an example out of the rapper by sending him back behind bars.

“It’s important that the world know how unfair he’s being treated on such minor charges … all because he’s T.I.,” explains Tiny. “There are way more dangerous and carefree [celebrities] that get slapped on the wrist and sent on their way.”

T.I. was removed from a halfway house and returned to federal custody after prison officials claim he was conducting business with unauthorized passengers on his tour bus.

Tiny pleaded for his return home.

“Our family needs [him] … and because of someone’s personal vendetta against him, we have to watch our kids’ sad faces everyday when he still doesn’t show up at home.”

He is currently scheduled to be released in a few weeks.