court case

YNW Melly Murder Case: What We Know

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In February 2019, Florida rapper YNW Melly was arrested on two counts of first-degree murder. Born Jamell Demons, the then-19-year-old was amid a swelling rap career under the YNW Melly moniker. From collaborating with Kanye West to delivering the hit single “Murder On My Mind,” he had a highly successful career ahead of him. Unfortunately, the song was more-so engrained in reality rather than fiction than fans would’ve thought.

Demons had an early fascination with music as an outlet for his chaotic childhood. Listening to artists like Chris Brown, he began recording music as a wild teenager. His mother gave birth to him when she was the mere age of 14. However, that lack of guidance would manifest in various unhealthy fixations. Demons took a precocious interest in guns as early as elementary school. In fact, he’s openly discussed bringing a revolver with him to school daily in fourth grade.

YNW Melly Had A Past Of Violence

YNW Melly’s song “Murder On My Mind” was rooted in his fixation with firearms. As a 16-year-old, he was charged with three counts of aggravated assault and one count of discharging a firearm in a public setting. He later told Billboard that being locked up inspired his chorus on the track, stating, “The first time I got locked up. I was like 15 or 16. I woke up and I had that chorus.”

On the track, Melly states, “His body dropped down to the floor and he had teardrops in his eyes/ He grabbed me by my hands and said he was afraid to die/ I told ’em it’s too late my friend, it’s time to say ‘goodbye.’” In retrospect, his fixation with violence was certainly unhealthier than the traditional discussions surrounding the topic in hip-hop. However, “Murder On My Mind” was released when outraged barbarity became mainstream hip-hop’s mainstay. Amid the SoundCloud era of sound, YNW Melly’s hit track blended in with other trap-banger hits that covered similar narratives.

Demons & YNW Bortlen Face Two Counts Of Murder

Before being arrested in February 2019 for the murder of two of his past friends, he had been in and out of prison. It’s a wonder that YNW even managed to grow his career continually. He was in a cyclical and chaotic routine. Melly would spend roughly six months in prison, then create music and persistently tour when he was out. On August 3, 2018, he released his first full-length mixtape in the form of I Am You. From a Chris Brown interpolation to the maternal ode in the form of “Mama Cry,” the mixtape blended his signature bangers with a softer side to his creative personality.

While creating his first full-length studio album, YNW Melly was associated with a new controversy. Christopher Thomas Jr and Anthony Williams, members of the YNW crew, were shot and killed on October 26, 2018. The two were dead before police arrived at the scene. Known as close friends and fellow MCs to Melly, he took to social media to mourn their passing, stating, “They took my brothers from me over jealousy.”

A few months later, Melly’s official documentary arrived on YouTube. The documentary primarily focuses on his troubling prison life and rise to fame. However, the end of the video claims that YNW Melly and his two murdered friends were the targets of a drive-by shooting in Miami. On the same day, he revealed that he was recording with Kanye West for the rumored Yandhi.

Melly Is Potentially Facing The Death Penalty

While Kanye West and YNW Melly were reportedly working together on music, Melly was arrested on murder charges along with Cortlen Henry, known as YNW Bortlen, on February 13, 2019. Police alleged that he shot and killed Thomas Jr and Williams. Furthermore, they accused Melly of staging the deaths as a drive-by shooting to clear his name.

Even during Melly’s time in prison, he continued releasing albums likely in the vault before he began serving time. Melly vs. Melvin spent 31 weeks on the Billboard 200 charts. Just a Matter of Slime featured Young Thug, Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Baby, Future, and more. The album debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 charts.

Since YNW Melly was imprisoned on murder charges, he has yet to see the light of day. Melly is set to face trial on the week of June 20th, with the jury selection process still ongoing. Per Florida’s recent law changes, only eight juror votes are now required to recommend the death penalty if a defendant is found guilty. This isn’t the case for Henry, who has been under house arrest since 2020. Now 24, YNW Melly has received a slew of supportive messages under the tag #FreeMelly. His little brother, dubbed YNW BSlime, has been releasing multiple tracks calling for his release.

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The post YNW Melly Murder Case: What We Know appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

T.I. Reappears In Court For OMG Girlz Vs. OMG Dolls Case

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Since 2009, The OMG Girlz have made their mark on Generation Z. From their fashion, colorful hair, and sound of music, they have become the influence of young girls during their reign before disbanding in 2015. The group has since performed together again for the Great Xscape Tour opening up for the legendary R&B group Xscape. Their influence has appeared to have a similar look to the toymaker MGA’s “OMG LOL Surprise” Dolls. T.I. has reappeared in the court to continue the fight against the toy maker for copying the looks of the group created by his wife, Tameka “Tiny” Harris.

Last Year, Tiny Harris filed a lawsuit against MGA over the intellectual property after accusing the company of copying the looks of the girl group she created in 2009. she claimed both “cultural appropriation and outright theft of the intellectual property,” as her official reason for taking MGA to court. In January, the case made it to trial and they started to appear in court over the lawsuit. The case was documented on Twitter by Meghann Cuniff, who is a Legal Affairs Journalist. After the trial was deemed a mistrial, both T.I. and Tiny appeared in court to fight the case again. On May 10th, T.I. appeared in court for the second trial of this case.

T.I. Continues The Fight Against MGA

Moreover, he was spotted outside the courtroom alongside Tiny and two of the original group members Bahja Rodriguez and Zonnique Pullins. Both Bajah and Zonnique sported their bright hair colors paying homage to the origins of their group. The OMG Girlz consisted of two more members, Lourdes Rodriguez and briefly Reginae Carter. Together, the group produced singles such as “Gucci This (Gucci That)” and “Where the Boys At.” The group has not put out an official album. However, their impact has remained strong. Subsequently, their fans still hold hope that the group will release an official project.

Furthermore, the case against MGA continues as T.I. and Tiny have gone to court for the second trial. What do you think will be the outcome of this case? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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Jonathan Majors Appears In Court, Charges Remain

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Jonathan Majors has found himself in boiling hot water these past few months. Since his arrest back in March, following the release of Creed III Majors floored fans when news surfaced. Following his arrest, the Manhattan D.A. hit The Last Black Man In San Francisco star with assault and sexual harassment charges. A woman has claimed Jonathan Majors struck “her about the face with an open hand, causing substantial pain and a laceration behind her ear.” Not only that, the accuser alleged he grabbed her neck causing bruising and considerable pain.

Consequently, this has led to an ongoing assault case for Jonathan Majors that have rang bells throughout Hollywood and fans everywhere. The domestic assault charges against Majors include multiple accounts of assault in the third degree. Moreover, the charges include: attempted assault in the third degree, aggravated harassment in the second degree, and harassment in the second degree. Since his arrest, the Creed III actor’s legal team has stated their client is completely innocent. After the news broke, his rep said, “He has done nothing wrong. We look forward to clearing his name and clearing this up.”

Read More: Jonathan Majors Charged With Assault In NY

Jonathan Majors Appears In Court

Actor Jonathan Majors attends day six of The 25th SCAD Savannah Film Festival on October 27, 2022 in Savannah, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

In other news, there are updates to the actor’s domestic dispute. Majors had his day in court, however, it wasn’t as momentous as his team would’ve hoped. The charges he’s facing will remain, something his legal team is not very happy about. Moreover, the Love Craft Country star had his first appearance on Tuesday in what would be the first chance to fight the damning charges against him. Unfortunately, in the end, nothing came of it. According to TMZ the charges are still intact and unchanged from when the news first emerged.

Reportedly, there will be a future hearing to discuss the motion filed by the actor’s defense team. However, it’s still uncertain as to what the motion is specifically. Nonetheless, Majors is due to appear back in court in June. His defense attorney told the tabloid they presented indisputable evidence that supposedly fully exonerates their client. They also claimed that the D.A. turned a blind eye to it. Majors legal team says it’s an example of explicit and implicit bias that still exists in the judicial system. What are your thoughts on the case? Does Jonathan Majors still have a future in Hollywood? Let us know below!

Read More: Jonathan Majors Problems Getting Worse

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Tyrese Ordered To Pay $650k In Custody Hearing

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Tyrese Gibson might be feeling a little light in the pockets after the latest ruling in his custody case. The actor is currently at war with ex-wife, Samantha Lee Gibson. According to TMZ, Tyrese has been ordered to pay around $650,000 in child support and legal fees. The ruling was made by a judge in Fulton County court on Tuesday. The money isn’t all going to his ex-wife. In fact, most of it will be going to her lawyer. The actor has been instructed to pay his ex-wife Samantha Lee Gibson $237,944 for child support. In addition, he must pay $399,000 to Samantha’s attorney.

This new ruling comes less than a year after Tyrese complained about the amount of support he was being asked to pay. In August, Tyrese refused to pay $10,000 per month to his ex. He claimed that the amount was excessive since Samantha makes a good income on her own. Additionally, the Fast and Furious actor has accused the judge of being biased against him due to his race. Whether or not that part is true is not clear.

Tyrese Won’t Take It Lying Down

Although the judge has made a decision, Tyrese’s attorney Tanya Mitchell Graham has stated that her client intends to appeal the ruling and file a motion for a new trial, according to TMZ. Graham has also mentioned that Tyrese is not obligated to pay his ex-wife until May 15th. However, she thinks that the due date could be extended further once she submits the appeal. The amount of $237,000 that Tyrese owes to Samantha includes child support and interest. In addition, it appears that Tyrese is required to pay $17,000 for the “special master” who was appointed by the judge to handle minor disputes during the case.

Just last week, Tyrese took to social media to ask for people to review the other rulings of the judge in his trial. “I want this man to do exactly what he’s there to do on that bench, according to the law,” Tyrese said. “You know what else I’m gonna ask? I’m gonna ask all the judges, and anyone who can step in and help me, to do a specific review. To pull up all the transcripts for every father that Judge Farmer ever had to be on the bench for. I want you to pull up the transcripts and really pick up and point out on everything that’s been discussed.” What do you think of the judge’s ruling? Is it fair? Let us know in the comments!

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Meek Mill Calls Out Texas Court: “No Regard For Black Life”

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Meek Mill is bringing some awareness to a seriously scary case out of Texas. This week, a black man in Texas was sentenced to 70 years in prison. This might make sense if the crime was horrific. However, 36-year-old Larry Pearson was sentenced to that time because he allegedly spit on police officers. Many have shown outrage at the sentence, claiming that it’s racism, pure and simple. Others have said that his history of violence warrants an extended period of time in jail. As is almost always the case, there is more to the story than spitting.

In May 2022, Larry Pearson was arrested after cops were flagged down by a person who alleged domestic violence. According to the victim, Pearson had struck her multiple times and claimed to have a firearm. The firearm was later found to be an airsoft gun. Pearson was taken into custody, but his behavior escalated as he kicked the doors of the police vehicle and spat at the officers when told to stop. Upon arrival at the Lubbock County Detention Center, he continued to spit at officers. Still, as Meek Mill later pointed out in a tweet, 70 years is insanity for a misdemeanor.

Meek Mill Calls For Action

Once the news broke, Meek took to his Twitter to speak out against the extreme sentence. “Nah this action level!!!!! Ain’t no way they can give us that much time for a misdemeanor,” he said. “Ion care what they gone try to say his record is! No regard for black life in that courtroom.” Meek Mill’s reaction to the verdict against Pearson seems very much justified. In fact, the judge on the case told the jury to “send a message” with their sentencing. Pearson did have previous convictions, but nothing that would warrant such a harsh punishment. Meek is no stranger to court system clownery, either.

On a post by The Shade Room, users used the comment section to speak their piece on the matter. Some agreed with Meek while others were somewhere in the middle. “Bro whaaattt?!? Anybody get anything even remotely close to that for storming the capital? I’ll wait….” said one. There were several people that disagreed with Meek’s assessment of the situation, however. “Unpopular opinion: 70 years is beyond unnecessary,” said one in disagreement. “But someone who has multiple DV and family abuse charges shouldn’t be coming home in 70 days either.” Who do you think is in the right here? Let us know in the comments.

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YFN Lucci Reportedly Refuses To Testify Against Young Thug

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Several rappers have found themselves on the wrong side of the law in recent years, including Young Thug and YFN Lucci. The two Georgia stars made millions from their music careers, but their beef stole just as much attention as their hits. Disses were thrown on social media and in lyrics, and the chaos has made it to court. Thug has been jailed for about a year over a RICO case where prosecutors claim he’s the head of a criminal organization, YSL. However, Thugger insisted YSL is a record label, not a gang, and supporters call for his release.

Meanwhile, YFN Lucci has faced a legal war all his own. In 2021, Lucci turned himself over to the authorities in connection with a murder case. Prosecutors alleged Lucci and several others were involved in a shooting. The incident resulted in the death of a man named James Adams. The rapper has denied any involvement and continues to fight for this freedom. Additionally, in March of 2021, Lucci was injured, and later, it was revealed he was stabbed in jail. Officials in Thug’s case stated the rapper was the person who ordered the attack. Authorities claimed Lucci was assaulted by members of YSL.

YFN Lucci’s Paperwork Surfaces

Lucci’s name has been repeatedly mentioned by prosecutors in Thug’s case. There was speculation that the former would testify against the latter. However, DJ Akademiks shared a reported court document that showed Lucci’s defiance. He allegedly refused to sign a subpoena to appear in court to testify against Young Thug and YSL. The validity is unclear, but a new post appeared on Lucci’s Instagram after the paperwork was circulated. It reads: “Even in a earthquake we wouldnt break n*gga know we solid #Free650.”

With all of the conversations about snitching permeating Hip Hop, this has sparked debates. Gunna was also arrested in connection with the YSL case, but in December, he copped to an Alford plea. He admitted that YSL was a gang in court as a part of the plea deal, but not everyone thought this was a good look. Still, Gunna was released and has been enjoying his freedom. When he does occasionally materialize on social media, he calls for the freedom of his friend, Young Thug. Check out YFN Lucci’s court documents above.

Afroman Reacts To Police Suing Him After Raiding His Home

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He tried to turn an unfortunate situation into a money maker, but it caused Afroman to be targeted by the authorities once again. In August, police conducted a raid on the hitmaker’s Ohio home. They claimed it was due to probable cause regarding drugs and paraphernalia, in addition to allegations that his residence was a location known for kidnapping and trafficking. Afroman, real name Joseph Foreman, wasn’t home during the raid, but he used the footage from the incident to further his career.

This has irked police to the point that they’ve filed a lawsuit against the musician. Afroman used clips and photos from the raid in his music videos and merchandise. His wife recorded the authorities in their home, and the residence was reportedly covered in security cameras. Bodycam footage from police was also shared, and Afroman made sure he used whatever he had. This includes images of officers’ likenesses, and the department doesn’t believe Afroman has a right to make money this way.

Afroman Responds To Lawsuit

The raid didn’t prove to be fruitful because police didn’t find the narcotics they were looking for. Instead, says Afroman, they seized an unknown amount of money and returned it all aside from $400. However, the sheriff’s office retorted that all of his money was returned, they simply miscounted during the initial investigation. Afroman wasn’t charged with any crimes.

Fox 19 News reported that seven plaintiffs were named in the lawsuit. Court documents say the artist “created dozens of videos and images of Plaintiffs’ personas and posted them on various social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Snap Chat, TicTok and Instagram.” It also reportedly cites seven Instagram posts that have been deleted from the platform. The authorities allege that officers have received death threats, and it has made their jobs more difficult. They accuse Afroman of “willful, wanton, malicious” behavior and “conscious or reckless disregard” of their rights.

“My Video Footage Is My Property”

Meanwhile, Afroman issued a statement to TMZ about the lawsuit. He seems unmoved. “My house is my property, my video camera films, everything on my property as they begin, stealing my money, disconnecting plus destroying my video camera system, they became my property!” he wrote. “Criminals caught in the act, of vandalizing and stealing money. My video footage is my property. I used it to identify the criminals who broke into my house, and stole my money. I used it to identify criminals, who broke into my house, stole my money and disconnected my home security system.” He also penned several notes on Instagram. Check out one of those posts above.

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Tasha K Apologizes To Cardi B After Losing Appeal In $4Mil Case

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It looks like Tasha K will have to pay up in her case with Cardi B, and the blogger returns with a note to the rapper. It’s been an intense back-and-forth between Cardi and Tasha for years after the latter shared false information about the rapper. On her platforms, Tasha claimed that Cardi had an STD, performed sex acts on stage at strip clubs, worked as a prostitute, and used drugs. The “WAP” hitmaker denied those allegations, and after being antagonized online, she sued Tasha K. After lengthy litigation, a court sided with Cardi to the tune of $4 million. Immediately, Tasha and her legal team filed an appeal.

However, it has been reported that Tasha also lost her appeal, and she has to cough up millions. She addressed the loss on Instagram, where she penned an apology to Cardi. “Damn Winos! We lost the appeal… against #CardiB sad day.. but I’m gonna be alright… I appreciate all your love & support. Throughout this fight. Today we throw in the white flag… what happened will never happen again… To Cardi & Her team, I apologize sincere. We Live, & Learn.”

Appeals Court Responds To Tasha K

Tasha’s attorneys previously argued that the court didn’t take a proper look at the evidence against Cardi. They also stated that the judge suppressed or withheld evidence that would have supported Tasha. The appeals court issued a five-page response along with their decision. “Defendant Latasha Kebe asks for a new trial, saying that there was insufficient evidence for the jury verdict against her,” they wrote. “But as she all but admits, she didn’t make either of the required post-verdict motions in the district court.”

“She never tells us where in the 5500-page record the district court’s alleged errors can be found,” the court documents continued. “Because Kebe’s brief falls well short of what we require, she has abandoned this argument.” Meanwhile, the Bronx rapper’s attorneys Andrew Pequignot and Lisa Moore gave a statement to Billboard about this latest decision. “We’re obviously pleased that the Eleventh Circuit has affirmed the jury’s unanimous and important verdict, which we believe was more than amply supported by the evidence presented in the case.”

A Warning For Bloggers

Tasha K hasn’t been the only blogger that an artist has taken to court. Last Fall, Nicki Minaj filed a lawsuit against Marley Green, known as Noesey Heaux. Minaj is suing the vlogger for defamation and has requested $75K in damages. Green alleged that the Rap icon was “cokehead,” said her “bloodline was disgusting,” and fired off comments about her son growing up to be a rapist. The rapper’s husband, Kenneth Petty, was accused of rape in the 1990s and served time after copping to a plea.

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XXXTentacion Verdict: 3 Suspects Found Guilty Of First-Degree Murder

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Following years of litigation, justice is served in XXXTentacion’s murder case. The rapper was at a motorbike shop in Florida in the summer of 2018 when he was accosted. XXXTentacion, real name Jahseh Onfroy, was in his vehicle leaving the establishment’s parking lot when an SUV blocked his entrance. The thieves reportedly intended to only rob people around town, and when they spotted the rapper, they thought they scored big. However, the botched robbery turned deadly within seconds, and at 20 years old, Onfroy was dead.

The trial has been a strange process where rappers found their names entangled in controversy. However, it’s come to an end, for now, after three of the four suspects were found guilty of the crime. Dedrick Williams, 26, Trayvon Newsome, 24, and Michael Boatwright, 28, will soon be sentenced for first-degree murder. A fourth suspect, Robert Allen, turned State’s witness and testified against his co-conspirators. The three found guilty today (March 20) face life sentences. Prosecutors decided against seeking the death penalty.

XXXTentacion’s Rap Beefs Brought Up In Court

Hip Hop fans know that “beefs” within the genre make for huge moments for artists, but they don’t often become focal points in murder cases. Although Robert Allen clearly stated on the stand that he and his former friends pulled off the deadly scheme, defense attorneys attempted to paint him as an unreliable witness. Additionally, XXXTentacion’s tension with his Rap peers also stole attention, including his rift with Drake. The OVO mogul’s name was repeatedly mentioned during the weeks-long trial, and the defense even tried to depose him. Drake was able to dodge involvement and allegations of setting up a hit on the late rapper. 600 Breezy’s name was also mentioned, but he was not asked to appear at the trial. Allen was questioned if he and the other suspects had any affiliation with Drake, and he denied knowing the hitmaker.

From the trial’s onset, prosecutors seemingly believed a guilty verdict was the expected outcome. Following the crime, the suspects reportedly made off with $50,000 in cash—which they split unevenly with Allen, who testified he didn’t exit the SUV when the murder was committed. Further, photos were introduced during the trial that showed the suspects flashing the cash and celebrating after XXXTentacion was killed. Surveillance video and cell phone data also placed the suspects at the crime scene. A sentencing hearing date has not yet been shared, but we will keep you updated as more information is released. Watch a portion of Robert Allen’s testimony above.

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Mystikal Wants Gag Order In Rape Case: Report

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Another legal setback has Mystikal by the reigns. The No Limit icon, real name Michael Tyler, has been in jail without bail since last July. Mystikal was arrested on charges related to an accusation of rape from a woman he’s reportedly known for upwards of two decades. According to the purported victim, she visited the rapper’s home to receive financial assistance for someone who needed money for an apartment. During the meeting, an alleged violent altercation occurred, and the woman claimed she was assaulted.

The Advocate reported the woman told authorities Mystikal prevented her from leaving his home by taking her car keys and mobile phone. She said he strangled and raped her, in addition to threatening to remove “bad spirits” from her with a pair of scissors. It’s also said that Mystikal believed the woman owed him money. The “Danger” hitmaker allegedly only let her leave his residence once she paid him $150 through a money app.

Mystikal Retains A New Attorney

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – SEPTEMBER 25: Mystikal performs at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall on September 25, 2021 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)

Mystikal’s trial is set for the summer, and he’s hired a new attorney as the hearing looms. Recently, Tiffany Myles Crosby filed a motion to set a gag order in place due to the “inordinate amount of publicity.” The rapper’s case has elicited conversations about his past run-ins with the law, including several allegations of sexual assault. In 2020, Mystikal scored a victory after a previous rape charge was tossed out of court. However, in 2004, Mystikal was sentenced to six years for sexual battery against his hairstylist.

In this latest case, Crosby wants this gag order to further include “all potential witnesses and law enforcement officials who either will or might testify at the trial of this case or who have information” about the matter. The Advocate noted Mystikal’s previous legal team opted to be more hands-on with the press, while Crosby moves more privately.

Facing A Severe Sentence

LOUISVILLE, KY – FEBRUARY 14: Mystikal performs during the Louisville Old School Hip Hop Festival at KFC YUM! Center on February 14, 2017 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)

In other court documents, it was alleged that Mystikal didn’t understand the previous motions filed on his behalf. Additionally, Mystikal has pleaded not guilty to the charges of rape and false imprisonment. If convicted, he could spend the remainder of his life in prison.

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