The YNW Melly double murder trial resumed after a week-long break, with day 12 focusing on the testimony of Treveon Glass, a close associate of the rapper and Miramar Lead Detective, Mark Moretti. Glass provided insight about YNW Melly’s whereabouts on the night of the deadly shooting. Additionally, surveillance footage analyzed by Detective Mark Moretti shed light on the presence of vehicles at the crime scene. As the trial entered its final stages, tensions rose over the admissibility of Melly’s marijuana use and a video allegedly implicating him.
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Treveon Glass, a friend and associate of YNW Melly, took the stand during day 12 of the double murder trial. Glass confirmed that he was with Melly at the recording studio prior to the shooting and later saw him at rapper Fredo Bang’s house, where Melly appeared to be wearing different clothes.
Glass’ testimony provided valuable insights into Melly’s movements on the fateful night.
During cross-examination, the defense questioned Glass about his marijuana use and whether he had smoked before testifying. During the recess, Traveon Glass admitted that he should have smoked before taking the stand.
He also confessed to texting his brother while on the witness stand. The defense expressed concerns that the content of their conversation might have been related to the trial.
However, under oath, Glass clarified that he was merely informing his brother about court proceedings in general, mentioning that “things are wild.”
Detective Mark Moretti, a seasoned investigator with 20 years of experience, was called to testify by the prosecution. Moretti reviewed surveillance footage from various locations, including a McDonald’s and the Colossal Academy’s US Tower. Notably, the footage revealed no presence of a red Mitsubishi during the relevant time period.
Moretti read a text from rapper Fredo Bang on October 26, 2018 at 4:45 AM, where it read “Miramar fl 33029 I’m on my way! Right now blood.” Moretti then presented evidence supporting rapper Fredo Bang’s mode of travel, using a helicopter, to corroborate his testimony.
During the cross-examination by YNW Melly’s defense attorney, Stuart Adelstein, Moretti was questioned about whether he had compared his flight pattern and travel points with the accidents and weather conditions of 2018. In response, Moretti answered “no”.
The prosecution sought to exclude YNW Melly’s history of chronic marijuana use from the trial, arguing it was irrelevant. However, the defense argued that the rapper’s cannabis consumption had affected his memory and should be admissible.
Ultimately, the judge ruled in favor of the defense, allowing Melly’s past marijuana use to be discussed during the trial.
A video allegedly featuring YNW Melly whispering that he would turn himself in while hiding inside a suitcase was presented in court. Melly voiced in the video saying, “My name is Melly and I’m going to turn myself in.” However, the video was not shown to the jury, adding intrigue and speculation to the proceedings.
Day 12 of the YNW Melly Double Murder trial concluded with Detective Moretti’s testimony adjourned until the next day. The trial will resume on day 13 with Moretti’s continued examination, promising further insights into the case.
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (7/10/23 at 6:42 pm)
The double-murder trial of rapper YNW Melly reached its 11th day with significant developments. Leondra Phillips, the mother of victim YNW Juvy, took the stand to testify while decisions were made regarding the presentation of evidence, including Snapchat videos and over 300 photographs. The viewing of the vehicle involved in the shooting was postponed, and the trial witnessed several legal arguments and testimonies related to the case. The trial will resume after a break for the Fourth of July week.
Throughout the trial, the prosecution presented Snapchat videos featuring YNW Melly without audio as evidence. They also submitted over 500 photographs to support their case.
The judge ruled that the videos were relevant to establish account ownership, but previously excluded similar videos depicting firearms and money. Additionally, legal respondent Terri Austin disclosed that the firearm used in the shooting has yet to be “discovered.”
During the investigation, Cortlen Henry aka YNW Bortlen, who is considered a person of interest in the murder of YNW Juvy and YNW SakChaser, initially provided the police with a different location than the actual crime scene on the night of the shooting. Additionally, no shell casings were found at the scene initially, adding complexity to the case.
However, upon tracking the locations of everyone in the car through their phones, authorities were able to pinpoint an area where .40 caliber casings were found. This crucial evidence contributed to the argument that the incident was not a drive-by shooting.
Additionally, it was revealed that YNW Bortlen had changed his clothes after the shooting and before seeking medical attention at the hospital.
Leondra Phillips, the mother of victim YNW Juvy, took the stand to identify her son and other individuals in surveillance footage captured outside the recording studio. She positively identified YNW Juvy, YNW Melly, YNW SakChaser, and YNW Bortlen in the footage. After her testimony, the defense chose not to cross-examine her and expressed condolences.
YNW Melly’s defense attorney requested that the jury be given the opportunity to examine the Jeep involved in the case after the break. However, due to concerns about the vehicle’s security, Judge Murphy III postponed its viewing.
Afi Patterson, a legal analyst, advised the defense to consider presenting their own “reconstruction expert” to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution effectively. She believes this is the only way for the defense to revisit and strengthen their case.
In response to the prosecution’s expert witness, Detective Sgt. Williams, Patterson asserts that he was unwavering and firmly stood his ground during cross-examination. The trial also witnessed legal arguments regarding the relevance of Snapchat videos and the still-missing firearm used in the shooting.
The prosecution expressed their intention to call Trevian Glass as a crucial witness. Glass, present in the red Mitsubishi captured in surveillance video on the night of the shooting, has been difficult to locate. His deposition is scheduled to take place on Friday, June 30. YNW Bortlen considered a person of interest in the case, will face a bond review hearing scheduled for Friday, June 30 as well.
Day 11 of the YNW Melly Double-Murder trial concluded with the presentation of numerous photographs and important testimonies. The trial will resume on Monday, July 10, following an adjournment for the Fourth of July week.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 30th, 2023.
The double-murder trial of rapper YNW Melly entered its tenth day with the testimony of police detective Sgt. Christopher Williams. Williams provided crucial details about the shooting of Christopher Thomas (YNW Juvy) and Anthony Williams (YNW Sakchaser), refuting the defense’s drive-by shooting theory. While shedding light on the incident, Sgt. Williams faced contradictions and criticisms during cross-examination. The trial will resume on 6/29 with the conclusion of Sgt. Williams’ testimony.
During the tenth day of YNW Melly’s double-murder trial, Sgt. Christopher Williams took the stand as a key witness, shedding light on the shooting incident. Here are the key details revealed during his testimony:
Sgt. Williams testified that the rounds fired in the Jeep were not from a drive-by shooting as “all the rounds should be coming in sideways.” He stated that shots were fired both from inside and outside the vehicle and that the Jeep was stationary during the shooting. He explained this when asked by the prosecution how rounds should enter a moving vehicle at 45 mph. Overall, 3 shots were fired inside the Jeep, and 17 shots were fired outside of the vehicle.
Williams determined that the front passenger’s head was down at an angle, resembling someone asleep when the shooting occurred. He also revealed that YNW Sakchaser was seated in the front passenger seat.
Williams investigated the Jeep at the BSO warehouse. Williams shared that he had the Jeep towed to the crime scene unit that has a forensic process garage from the BSO warehouse.
The detective explained his investigative process, using high school geometry to analyze the evidence. He testified that he measured the distance between seats and determined the trajectory of the projectile. He revealed that two projectiles were recovered from the Jeep and that the blowback from the front seat passenger came from a firearm at close range.
Williams determined a projectile exited out the front passenger window with the victim’s head at a resting angle. YNW Sakchaser was in the front seat passenger of the Jeep.
According to Williams, Juvy was already dead when shot multiple times as he was “crumbling” with each round, according to reconstruction. He testified that the defensive wound on YNW Juvy proves he had no idea he or YNW Sakchaser were about to be shot stating, “Mr. Thomas was not aware of what was going on. He was taken by surprise with his hands being up, almost saying ‘don’t shoot’.
During cross-examination, Williams faced contradictions in his statements. Though he refuted the defense’s drive-by shooting theory, he later mentioned the possibility of shots being fired from outside the Jeep.
The defense challenged the investigation conducted by the Miramar Police Department, leading Williams to attest that it was “the worst” investigation he had ever seen “in my life.”
Under cross-examination by YNW Melly’s defense, David A. Howard, Williams admitted to a lack of physical evidence in his findings stating, “We don’t have the blood evidence or trajectory to prove someone was outside of the Jeep”. However, he continued to assert his conclusions were sound stating, “it’s all demonstrative”.
Williams responded to defense questioning, stating, “The shooting happened from somebody inside the car. Blood evidence shows the shooting happened from the inside the car. Suggestion of it happening outside… I wouldn’t entertain it.”
Growing frustrated with the defense’s suggestions of other scenarios, Williams then told David A. Howard, YNW Melly’s defense, “I’m not entertaining all your scenarios.”
YNW Melly recited prayers during breaks in the trial but appeared restrained and did not perform the crossing and kissing gesture criticized by the victims’ families in previous sessions.
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (6/29/23 at 10:50 am)
The ninth day of the YNW Melly double-murder trial brought forth significant developments as the defense continued the cross-examination of undercover detective Danny Polo. The jury witnessed a comparison of lyrics by rapper Kevin Gates and YNW Melly, highlighting the defense’s argument that the lyrics should not be taken literally. Additionally, medical examiners Dr. Rebecca MacDougall and Dr. Adrienne Sauder took the stand, providing crucial testimony regarding the victims’ cause and manner of death. The trial adjourned with the anticipation of Christopher Williams, the father of one of the victims, as the next witness.
Day 9 of the YNW Melly double-murder trial commenced with a prayer from YNW Melly before jurors entered the courtroom. The cross-examination of undercover detective Danny Polo by Melly’s attorney, David A. Howard, continued, with the defense presenting a side-by-side comparison of Kevin Gates’ lyrics and Melly’s similar statements to argue that the lyrics should not be interpreted literally.
During the cross-examination, Howard read text messages of gang members offering condolences to Melly after the shooting. Witness Danny Polo claimed these messages were coded “to guide” Melly. The defense aimed to challenge the prosecution’s narrative by suggesting alternative interpretations of the messages.
A new witness, Dr. Rebecca MacDougall, took the stand and planned to present 128 photos during her testimony. However, the judge narrowed the number to 23 to avoid showing excessively gruesome images. Dr. MacDougall, who served as Broward County’s Chief Medical Examiner, testified about the gunshot wounds suffered by the victims, Juvy and Sakchaser.
According to Dr. MacDougall, YNW Sakchaser was shot multiple times after the initial gunshot wound to the back of his head. Upon arriving at the hospital, the medical examiner confirmed that Sakchaser did not have a heartbeat and opined that he was alive when he was shot based on abrasions and hemorrhaging.
The cause of Sakchaser’s death was determined to be multiple gunshot wounds, classified as a homicide.
Dr. MacDougall stated that the fatal shot that caused the death of Anthony Williams (YNW Sakchaser) entered the back of his neck. However, she admitted that she could not determine the proximity of the shooter or if there were one or more shooters.
The examination of the gunshot ranges was undetermined, and the pattern of the second and third shots could not be established.
Following Dr. MacDougall’s testimony, Dr. Adrienne Sauder, an associate medical examiner, took the stand. She conducted the autopsy on Christopher Thomas Jr, known as YNW Juvy. Dr. Sauder revealed that there were two defects in Juvy’s heart and stated that the heart was not beating when the wounds were inflicted. The cause of death for Juvy was also classified as multiple gunshot wounds and ruled a homicide.
Dr. Sauder acknowledged the importance of examining the victim’s clothing to determine the cause and manner of death. Furthermore, she conceded that Juvy arrived without any clothes. In response to a question from defense attorney Stuart Adelstein, Dr. Sauder admitted uncertainty regarding whether Juvy’s clothes or dreadlocks were examined.
The trial day ended with the announcement that Christopher Williams, Sakchaser’s father, would be the next witness, with his testimony expected to span two days. Day 10 of the trial is set to resume on Wednesday, June 28, at 9:00 AM ET.
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (6/27/23 at 6:50 pm)
In the ongoing double murder trial of YNW Melly, Detective Danny Polo took the stand on day 9, shedding light on crucial testimony and unveiling over 123 text messages. As the unmasked detective testified, the prosecution presented text message conversations about guns and ammunition, raising questions about their motives. Polo is the sole witness to testify on day 8 of the trial, making him the longest-standing witness in the proceedings thus far. Legal experts analyze the significance of tying YNW Melly to gang activity and the challenges faced by the defense. With the trial climaxing, the courtroom awaits whether YNW Melly will testify.
Detective Danny Polo, whose personal identity was previously concealed, appeared unmasked on the witness stand. YNW Melly’s attorney, Stuart Adelstein, requested the removal of Polo’s mask, presenting a photo of Polo’s wife’s cash app account with a family profile picture.
Polo requested permission to call his wife before complying with the request. Eventually, Judge Murphy III ruled that Polo would proceed without the mask for the remainder of his testimony.
The prosecution introduced text messages in the trial, revealing conversations related to guns and ammunition. Afi Patterson, SOHH’s legal respondent, questioned the prosecution’s motive behind presenting these messages.
Patterson argues that after a drive-by shooting, it is natural for someone to be concerned about their safety and seek protection, including acquiring weapons. She also emphasized the importance of having an expert witness to decipher the coded language and slang specific to gang activity mentioned in the messages. Afi Patterson said:
“My argument from a defense perspective, would be why wouldn’t I be looking for guns and ammo, if I’ve been attacked in a drive-by shooting”. Things in my life would have now become a little bit more intense, a little bit more heated, I’m in danger. I need weaponery. That would be my first thought, post-shooting, so I don’t know where they’re (prosecution) is going with that.”
Following the proceedings, Polo was asked to identify YNW Bortlen in a group photo featuring YNW Melly and members of the G-Shine Blood gang. Polo mentioned the rivalry between West Coast Bloods, East Coast Bloods, and the connections between Gino and NYC Bloods through Gino’s boss, Stretch.
The prosecution aimed to establish YNW Melly’s ties to gang activity by presenting slang and coded language in the text messages.
Detective Danny Polo acknowledged not becoming involved in the YNW Melly investigation until January 2022. He confirmed Attorney Howard’s statement that he was assigned to the case as a “gang expert” by his sergeant.
Polo expressed his enthusiasm for the assignment, informing his sergeant, “I would love it.”
During the Q&A session, Afi Patterson was asked whether YNW Melly’s connections and involvement with the Bloods would guarantee a death sentence if he is found guilty. Patterson responded that having a connection or affiliation with an organization with a criminal history does not automatically make someone guilty.
Patterson expressed her belief that the prosecution has not provided sufficient evidence to link the affiliation to the murders of Sak and Juvy. She states:
“Just because you have a connection or affiliation with an organization that may have a known criminal history, it doesn’t automatically make you guilty. I don’t think the prosecution has done enough to tie the affiliation to the murders of Sak and Juvy.”
Polo’s involvement in YNW Melly’s case as a “gang expert” was confirmed by his sergeant, defense attorney David A. Howard pointed out. The defense challenged the prosecution’s case by highlighting the contradiction between evidence suggesting gang affiliation and Polo’s acknowledgment that song lyrics don’t make someone a gang member. During the trial, YNW Melly’s defense attorney, David A. Howard, referred to Serena Williams’ “cripwalking” after one of her tennis victories.
He asked Det. Danny Polo if this meant Williams was attempting to join the Crips gang. Polo responded, “No, that is just her paying homage to where she’s from.” The defense also presented a video showing how to perform gang signs, including the 5-Star Blood signs, to counter Polo’s claim of not finding such a video.
As the trial progresses, the question of whether YNW Melly will testify arises. Legal respondent Afi Patterson believes it is unlikely, as defense attorneys often discourage their clients from taking the stand due to the potential pitfalls.
Testifying allows the prosecution to explore previously unexplored incidents and scrutinize the defendant’s demeanor, potentially impacting the trial outcome. She states, “Many defense attorneys often discourage their client from testifying. She continued to emphasis it as a “minefield” and that defendants are under such “scrutiny.”
The YNW Melly Double Murder trial concluded its eighth day at 5:00 PM ET, with the ninth day of the trial scheduled to resume on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at 9:00 AM ET.
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (6/27/23 at 1:53 pm)
The YNW Melly double-murder trial has seen a week filled with notable events, as testimonies and evidence unfolded in court. From delays due to a sick juror to the introduction of cellphone data evidence and the controversial appearance of an undercover detective, each day provided captivating moments.
SOHH legal correspondent, Afi Patterson, Esq. offers insights into the trial proceedings and raises questions about the prosecution’s evidence and its impact on the case. As the trial prepares to resume, the story of YNW Melly’s alleged involvement in the double murder continues to unfold.
The trial experienced a delay on Day 5 due to a sick juror, which postponed the testimony. Another juror questioned the defense’s motion for a mistrial but was allowed to remain on the jury after claiming no exposure to media coverage of the trial.
Day 6 focused on the presentation of cellphone data evidence. The DNA analyst revealed that YNW Melly’s DNA was found only on the rear driver-side door handle of the vehicle involved in the case. It was noted that Melly’s DNA sample initially tested negative but was re-analyzed after the trial began.
Day 7 took an unexpected turn when undercover detective Danny Polo entered the court to testify wearing a ski mask. The defense criticized his expertise and objected to his testimony, asserting that it was prejudicial. Polo introduced text messages allegedly sent by YNW Melly, including a request in which Melly that his mother to purchase a Glock .40 firearm. The message that was cited read “I’d rather have a Glock 40.”
In January 2017, Melly was arrested during a traffic stop, and officers found a .40 caliber Glock in his glove compartment. That likely connected the dots for the prosecution and led them to conclude that Melly was the shooter because a .40 caliber gun was purportedly the murder weapon.
In response to Polo’s appearance, the defense counsel discredited the detective, asserting the detective is in his “embryonic stage” and lack of experience as an expert witness. According to SOHH.com legal respondent Afi Patterson, Danny Polo did not have any “intimate or first-hand knowledge” about Melly’s supposed gang affiliations. “He was never undercover and he gained his expertise from conferences and certifications,” added Patterson. “I would also object to his testimony on the grounds that it is wildly prejudicial.”
According to Patterson, “the prosecution had a lot of challenges with turning over evidence and with following the proper procedures and protocols for introducing evidence into court.” The defense complained that the prosecution turned over evidence the morning of, and that it was received via email. The defense asked the prosecutor to have the professional courtesy to print out the documents, where the prosecutor was “reluctant” and had to be reprimanded by the judge.
Felicia Holmes, a witness for the prosecution, testified last week, leading the defense to motion for a mistrial, claiming prejudicial statements were made. However, the judge ultimately denied the motion.
Patterson expressed that there are significant holes in the prosecution argument. “Prosecutors have not established YNW Melly’s connection to the gun or proven that he pulled the trigger. The studio footage confirms his presence in the vehicle, which we do not doubt, but what occurred after they left?”
With the trial set to resume on Monday, June 26 at 9 AM ET, the unfolding events will determine YNW Melly’s fate in the double-murder case.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 23rd, 2023.
Day 7 of the double murder trial involving rapper YNW Melly took an unexpected turn when an undercover detective, Danny Polo, from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, appeared on the witness stand wearing a full-face ski mask. The masked testimony sparked discomfort among the jurors, leading to notes being submitted to the judge expressing their objections.
During the proceedings of YNW Melly’s double murder trial, an undercover detective named Danny Polo testified while wearing a ski mask, drawing attention and raising eyebrows. The defense attorney, Stuart Adelstein, questioned the duration the detective had spent unmasked before the proceedings, to which Polo replied, “about an hour.”
The presence of the masked witness unsettled some jurors, leading to their objections being conveyed through notes.
Two jury notes were shared with the judge and attorneys involved in the case. According to defense attorney David A. Howard, one of the jury notes stated, “Why does he get to see us but we don’t get to see him?” This was read aloud in court. The judge directly read from the second note written by a juror, which said, “I need a moment. I can’t listen properly. When I was a child, I saw someone get robbed, and I am having an anxiety attack.”
The reason behind Detective Danny Polo wearing the ski mask was his claim that there was a $50,000 bounty on his head, causing concern for his family’s safety. However, YNW Melly’s defense, Stuart Adelstein, inquired about the duration the undercover detective remained unmasked while sitting outside.
The deputy responded, stating that it was approximately an hour. The prosecution proceeded to present text messages allegedly sent by YNW Melly, including a request for his mother to purchase a legal gun, expressing a preference for a Glock .40 over a .45 caliber firearm. The message read “I’d rather have a Glock 40.”
After the proceedings, undercover detective Danny Polo analyzed the gang-related language used in YNW Melly’s texts, which prosecutors claim indicate his affiliation with the G-Shine Bloods. It is alleged that Melly made an attempt to familiarize himself with the gang’s loyalty oath just two days prior to the shootings. Additionally, during the proceedings, Polo presented the “Gang Bible,” a document containing the rules and regulations of the gang.
The trial aims to conclude by the end of July 2023, as Judge John Murphy III stated.
YNW Melly’s murder trial has generated significant attention and media coverage. Amid the trial, the spotlight briefly shifted to Melly’s lawyer, Raven Liberty, when her mugshot from a previous arrest went viral on social media.
The online frenzy surrounding Liberty’s mugshot has sparked mixed reactions among users, with some expressing concerns about its impact on Melly’s case.
Raven Liberty, known as YNW Melly’s defense attorney, became the subject of social media chatter after a viral mugshot of hers circulated online. It was revealed that Liberty had been arrested for battery on August 25, 2022, in Miami, Florida. She was subsequently released on a $1,500 bond.
In her notable legal career, Raven Liberty has served as the legal representative for rapper Kodak Black, including a first-degree sexual misconduct charge in 2016, allegations of making false statements about illegal weapon possession in 2019, and an assault and battery case in 2021, has gained recognition for her involvement in high-profile cases.
The emergence of Liberty’s mugshot during the ongoing murder trial of YNW Melly has sparked attention and commentary from social media users. Some users expressed concerns about the potential impact of Liberty’s personal legal history on her representation of Melly.
One user wrote, “You know it’s a circus when the person representing you has their own mugshots released during your trial.”
Meanwhile, the double murder trial of YNW Melly continued on day six, resuming on June 21, 2023, at 9:34 AM ET.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 21st, 2023.
On the fifth day of the YNW Melly double murder trial, which revolves around a 2018 alleged double homicide, a motion for mistrial filed by Melly’s defense team was denied. The trial has been ongoing in Florida since June 20, 2023. During the fourth day of the trial, the defense raised concerns after the prosecution presented evidence that Judge Murphy III had previously determined as inadmissible.
According to Law&Crime correspondent Terri Austin, defense attorney Stuart Adelstein informed her that Judge John Murphy III had issued a written order denying the mistrial motion on Friday. However, the order has not yet been uploaded to the public docket on the Broward County court website.
During the early morning proceedings on Tuesday, June 20, Judge Murphy called for a delayed start due to a dehydrated juror. Just before the court session was set to resume, a juror asked a bailiff about the status of the mistrial motion. The bailiff responded neutrally, without providing a definite answer.
Consequently, the juror was questioned by the judge regarding her knowledge of the motion.
The juror confirmed that she had inquired about the mistrial’s status and stated that she learned about it in court the previous week from a defense attorney. She explicitly denied encountering any information about the motion through media outlets, personal research, or discussions with fellow jurors.
Ultimately, both the prosecution and the defense reached an agreement, allowing the juror to remain on the jury and participate in the case’s deliberations. YNW Melly appeared in court, seemingly optimistic, before the judge’s decision on the mistrial motion. However, the motion was denied, leaving the rapper still facing the possibility of the death penalty if found guilty.
Meanwhile, amidst the ongoing trial, a mugshot of YNW Melly’s lawyer has been circulating on social media. The trial resumed for its sixth day at 9:35 AM ET, continuing to unfold with further proceedings and revelations.
Updated on June 21st, 2023 by Yasmine Duhé.
The YNW Melly murder trial continues to captivate attention as the judge prepares to review controlling laws and cases over the weekend, deliberating on the defense’s motion for a mistrial. The week’s proceedings concluded with significant moments, including the intense testimony of state witness Felicia Holmes and the public scrutiny of YNW Melly’s conduct throughout the trial.
One particular aspect that drew criticism was YNW Melly’s behavior in court. On the third day of the trial, he was observed engaging in prayer, crossing himself, and following it with a kiss. Unfortunately, the victims’ family misinterpreted this act as disrespectful. On other occasions, he was seen laughing and smiling alongside his attorneys, which some viewed as inappropriate given the gravity of the situation.
“This serves as a perfect example of why defense attorneys often advise their clients against taking the stand because, from the moment they step foot in the courtroom, they are under intense scrutiny,” explains Afi Patterson, a legal contributor at SOHH.com.
Another significant highlight arose during the intense questioning of Felicia Holmes, the mother of YNW Melly’s ex-girlfriend, who was called as a state witness. Observers described the prosecutor’s approach toward her as “harassing” and questioned the appropriateness of Prosecutor Bradley’s threats of potential perjury. Holmes herself stated that she felt coerced into making the statement she provided on the fourth day of the trial.
“I believe her claim that she felt threatened by the state lends significant credibility, especially when it aligns with her assertion that her daughter was threatened with arrest,” states attorney Patterson.
The trial will resume in the week beginning June 20th, when the judge will make a decision regarding the potential mistrial. While a mistrial may appear as a short-term victory for YNW Melly, it could introduce future complications and fail to provide satisfaction to the victims’ family.
“I don’t view a mistrial as a victory,” remarks attorney Afi Patterson. “It is unfair to the victim, their families, the defendant, and all those who have lost sleep in preparing for this legal battle.”
The financial burden of the case can also be significant for the defendant, with costs ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, according to Patterson.
“Defendants usually only have one shot, so it’s upsetting when the prosecution breaches a rule and rings a bell in the jurors’ minds that can’t be unrung,” remarks Patterson. For many defendants, if the state decides to retry the case, they may have to rely on a public defender. “PD’s, while great trial lawyers, are not always provided the financial resources they need to zealously defend their clients,” adds Patterson.
As the YNW Melly murder trial progresses, legal professionals and the public remain keenly invested in the judge’s decision and the potential implications it holds for the case.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 16th, 2023
The murder trial of rapper YNW Melly reached its fourth day with various controversial moments and testimonies. While the trial proceeded, concerns were raised about the defendant’s behavior in the courtroom, including a gesture that offended the victim’s family. And revealing social media posts by witness, Felicia Holmes.
Testimonies from key witnesses, including Felicia Holmes, the mother of Melly’s ex-girlfriend. The trial took an unexpected turn as the judge considered the possibility of a mistrial, which will be discussed when the trial resumes on June 17th.
During the trial, YNW Melly’s behavior in the courtroom drew attention when he appeared to blow a kiss, offending the victim’s family. Journalist Bryson Paul clarified that the gesture was actually a recitation of a prayer that ended with a blown kiss. The victim’s family also spoke out against the presence of celebrities showing support for Melly.
The prosecution and defense contrasted their arguments regarding the nature of the crime. The defense is shaping the case as a drive-by shooting, while the prosecution argues that the incident was a staged, cold-blooded killing.
Key witnesses include Felicia Holmes, the mother of Melly’s ex-girlfriend. Holmes testified that she has a lack of memory regarding the events leading up to the murder in 2018. The prosecution claimed to have heard a phone call between Melly and Holmes’s daughter after the double murder, but Holmes stated she does not remember the phone number. She also admitted to receiving $5,000 from Melly’s manager, Jameson Francois, but denied it being for personal use. Prosecutors appeared to be hinting at the possibility of witness tampering.
Felicia Holmes accused the state of lying about ordering her to court and causing her to lose her nursing job. When presented with an Instagram message allegedly from her, she claimed not to recall it. The judge subsequently denied the use of certain evidence provided by the prosecution, leading to speculations of a weakening case.
Judge Murphy III is considering the possibility of a mistrial, taking the move under advisement. The trial will discuss the decision regarding a mistrial on June 20, when it resumes.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 15th, 2023
YNW Melly seemed to steer clear of death penalty charges, but fate dangles as a possibility. Previously, it appeared that he would avoid such a conviction, but a recent ruling by a judge has opened the door to a potential death sentence.
The judge ruled in favor of the state, stating that a death sentence could be possible if the jury voted 8-4 in favor of the death penalty. This legal development follows the implementation of a law created after the Parkland school shooter, Nikolas Cruz, managed to avoid the death penalty.
Cruz’s heinous act resulted in the loss of 17 lives and the injury of 14 others using an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle.
Regarding YNW Melly’s case, his supporters continue to rally behind him. His mother took to Instagram, stating:
“Official update on @ynwmelly we started jury selection today and will continue over the next 2 weeks. Trial will start June 5, 2023, no more delays. #mellyfree2023.”
YNW Melly’s brother, YNW BSlime, also chimed in on his Instagram story, urging people to refrain from making ignorant comments by voicing, “Stop saying ignorant stuff and just watch ts play out please and thank u.”
Since YNW Melly’s arrest in February 2019, he has faced charges of two counts of first-degree murder. The jury has been engaged in a back-and-forth battle, attempting to prove Melly’s alleged gang affiliation through photographs of his tattoos, which could potentially contribute to considering the death penalty.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 6th, 2023
It was been announced that YNW Melly would not get the death penalty for the murder charge in 2019.
YNW Melly avoided being faced with the death penalty for the murder charge he went to jail for in 2019.
Melly’s management team announced the news on his Instagram account:
“Today Melly wins motion to remove death penalty against prosecution”
The news was also shared by his mother, Jamiek, on her Instagram page:
“I’m literally crying real tears you coming home son @ynwmelly”
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfrvILqv22i/
In February, the state of Florida prosecutor’s office advanced their case against rapper YNW Melly, seeking to prove his gang affiliation with photos of his tattoos.
The state announced they were going for the penalty.
