guilty verdict

Jam Master Jay Trial: Late DJ’s Son TJ Mizell Reacts To Guilty Verdicts

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Earlier this week, two men were found guilty of the 2002 murder of Run-DMC icon Jam Master Jay. The convictions of the men, Karl Jordan and Ronald Washington, followed a three-week trial. Throughout the trial, prosecutors called over 30 witnesses to the stand to recount the alleged drug deal gone wrong. Jordan and Washington are now both facing a minimum of 20 years behind bars, though they can still challenge the verdict with the judge and in federal appeals court.

Amid the news, Jam Master Jay’s son TJ Mizell spoke with Billboard. He thanked those involved in helping his family reach justice, also emphasizing the importance of keeping his father’s legacy alive. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the prosecutors, law enforcement officials and all involved in bringing these individuals to justice. Their unwavering dedication has ensured a measure of accountability for the tragic loss of Jam Master Jay,” he said. “As we pause to reflect, we are reminded of the profound impact and influence Jay had on countless lives. His legacy endures through his music, his spirit and the cherished memories we hold dear. We remain committed to honoring his memory and celebrating the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”

Read More: Jam Master Jay Trial: 2 Men Found Guilty Of Murder

TJ Mizell Is “Committed To Honoring” Jam Master Jay

(L-R) American rapper, producer, DJ and television personality Joseph “Run” Simmons, rapper Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and musician and DJ Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell (1965 – 2002), of the American hip hop group Run-D.M.C, pose for a portrait in New York, New York in March 1985. They are posing on a rooftop with The Empire State Building in the background. (Photo by John Nordell/Getty Images)

“To all who have supported us throughout this challenging journey, we offer our heartfelt thanks,” he then added. “Your love, kindness, and steadfast support have been a source of strength during our darkest moments. We ask that you continue to honor Jay’s memory through his music and the positive impact he made on the world,” Mizell also says. “While the pain of our loss will always remain, we find solace in the knowledge that justice has been served. Our family believes in God’s plan and that faith is what helped provide closure for us long ago. We thank all that continue to support Jay’s legacy by honoring his life’s achievements.”

What do you think of two men being found guilty of the murder of Jam Master Jay earlier this week? What about his son TJ Mizell’s statement? Are you glad that he feels as though justice has been served? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and also keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: Jam Master Jay Murder Witness Tearfully Recalls Shooting

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Jonathan Majors Says “Faith” Is Helping Him After Guilty Verdict

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Jonathan Majors says “prayer” and “faith” are keeping him going after his recent guilty verdict for third-degree assault and second-degree harassment. TMZ caught up with the disgraced actor in West Hollywood, earlier this week, to ask how he’s been holding up.

“God is good. God is great,” Majors said, before listing “prayer” and “faith” as the ways he’s staying positive. When asked about the future of his acting career, Majors ended the interview.

Read More: Jonathan Majors & Meagan Good Arrive In Court For Opening Statements

Jonathan Majors Leaves Court After Hearing Guilty Verdict

TOPSHOT – US actor Jonathan Majors (C) leaves a courtroom after being found guilty of assault and harassment of his former girlfriend, at the Manhattan criminal courts in New York City on December 18, 2023. Rising Hollywood star Jonathan Majors was convicted on December 18, 2023 of assaulting and harassing his ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari, prompting Marvel to drop him from a prime role in its superhero blockbusters. (Photo by Yuki IWAMURA / AFP) (Photo by YUKI IWAMURA/AFP via Getty Images)

Majors stood trial for the assault on his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, in November and December of 2023. Among the many pieces of evidence presented was a recording of Majors labeling himself a “great man” and comparing himself to Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama, while also demanding Jabbari act like Coretta Scott King and Michelle Obama. District Attorney Alvin Bragg said in a statement after the ruling: “The evidence presented throughout this trial illustrated a cycle of psychological and emotional abuse and escalating patterns of coercion far too common across the many intimate partner violence cases we see each and every day. Today, a jury determined that the pattern of abuse and coercion culminated with Mr. Majors assaulting and harassing his girlfriend. We thank the jury for its service and the survivor for bravely telling her story despite having to relive her trauma on the stand.”

Jonathan Majors Speaks With TMZ

Majors is due back in court for sentencing on February 6, 2024. Be on the lookout for further updates on Jonathan Majors and his case on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Jonathan Majors Seemingly Teases Marriage To Meagan Good

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Jonathan Majors Maintains His Innocence In First Interview Since Guilty Verdict

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Last month, the year-long drama of Jonathan Majors assault trial finally came to a close. It came to a close with Majors being found guilty of assault and harassment, the two lesser of the four charges originally brought against him. He’s due to be sentenced next month and could face up to a year in prison. Many expect him to escape his sentencing without being his with any actual time behind bars.

In an interview that aired this morning on Good Morning America Majors broke his silence. He spoke out on the results of the trial for the first time since the verdict was handed down. In the interview he maintains his innocence despite the guilty ruling from the jury. He says in the interview that he was “shocked” by the verdict and that he believed the evidence was in his favor. He also uses the interview to defend a controversial leaked audio snippet. In the recording, he tells his ex-gf she needs to be more like Michelle Obama and Coretta Scott King. He stood behind the message and claimed he was just standing behind women he idolized. Check out Majors’ full interview below.

Read More: Jonathan Majors Fight Breakup Video Released

Jonathan Majors “Shocked” By Trial Verdict

Elsewhere in the interview Majors made other claims that go fan’s attention. He confessed to cheating in the situation and claims that he could have avoided the whole situation if he had simply been “man enough” to just end the relationship instead of cheat. Majors also sent plenty of praise directed at his new girlfriend Meagan Good. Good was often spotted alongside him throughout the proceedings of his trial.

Some were surprised that Majors chose GMA for his interview in the first place. That’s because its network ABC is owned by Disney. Disney also owns Marvel, who recently cut Jonathan Majors from their Cinematic Universe series of superhero films. What do you think of Jonathan Majors first interview since he was found guilty in his recent assault trial? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Jonathan Majors Accuser Charged With Assault In Connection To Their Incident

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Troy Ave Reacts To Taxstone Verdict On “Dear Hater I Won”

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Troy Ave’s celebrating the guilty verdict in Taxstone’s murder case with the release of a brand new diss track. After a jury found the hip-hop podcaster guilty, the New York rapper dropped off his new single, “Dear Hater I Won.” The rapper shared a new video, including the subtitle “Taxstone Found Guilty,” which shows him in front of the court, suited up, as he celebrates his apparent win against the podcaster after a bitter legal war 

The song opens up with clips of various media personalities discussing the case, and an apparent “letter,” in which Troy Ave says Taxstone sent a letter to the judge “snitching” on him. Evidently, Troy Ave feels vindicated by the results of the trial and he makes it known across the record. Tackling the ghastly production, Troy Ave comes through with a celebratory tone where he describes the shooting from his perspective and includes surveillance footage from Irving Plaza on the night of the shooting.

Troy Ave Blasts “Hater” Taxstone

Troy Ave dropped the song hours after a jury handed in the verdict. Taxstone was found guilty of manslaughter in the first degree, two counts of assault in the first degree, assault in the second degree, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon with intent to unlawfully use against another person, and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. However, he was cleared of second-degree murder charges and second-degree attempted murder.

During the trial, Troy Ave wound up taking the stand against Taxstone and detailing the murder. The testimony reduced what would’ve been a 15-year sentence to one year. He told the court that he fought Taxstone for the gun before it hit him in the leg. “If it’s fight or flight I’m always going to fight because at that point you could die,” he said. Check out his song above and sound off with your thoughts in the comments.

Quotable Lyrics
Got attempted murder ’cause I took the gun from him and bust back
This ain’t no made up raps, I’m paraphrasing the facts
I’m the king of the underground, you just a underground rat
I rose up above the rodents, they tried to pull yo boy back

XXXTENTACION Killers Guilty: Twitter Reacts

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The court found the three codefendants accused of murdering XXXTENTACION to be guilty of first-degree murder. Moreover, on Monday (March 20), the month-long trial concluded upon the decision of a South Florida jury. Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams and Trayvon Newsome also faced a guilty conviction for charges of armed robbery with a firearm. Afterwards, sheriff’s deputies immediately handcuffed them in the courtroom. Each of the three perpetrators now face mandatory life sentences, although an official sentencing hearing will take place on a later date. Given X’s massive reach and the highly publicized legacy of his life and death, it’s been a long road to get to this point, five years after his death.

However, another codefendant, Robert Allen, actually became a state’s witness against his co-perpetrators in August of 2022. During their trial, he testified against the three accused men and pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Said confessions gave the court more context as to what the motivations and dynamic of the murder were. Also, they debunked theories that other rappers like Drake actually instigated the murder or were part of a planned-out hit.

XXXTENTACION Killers Found Guilty

Still, Allen’s fate is unclear at the moment regarding his sentence, although that could soon come to light. Unsurprisingly, many reacted positively to the verdict, whether with jubilance or with resigned sadness. While it’s fulfilling and satisfying to see justice served, it’s not exactly the most celebratory of occasions. After all, X’s years-long absence will always be felt more powerfully than his killers’ incarceration. Even considering that these men will remain behind bars for life doesn’t get at the massive crisis that rappers face today, as they’re targeted for their image, wealth, possessions, and to make a headline.

Since X’s death, far too many rappers were lost at the hands of those wanting to steal their success. The three guilty men in this trial later flaunted their money and appeared quite pleased with themselves in released footage to the court. As many fans, loved ones, and regular people react to the verdict, many also acknowledge that the real work to help protect hip-hop is still yet to be done. Regardless, check out reactions below and return to HNHH for the latest updates on this story.

Twitter Reacts To Verdict

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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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Yung Joc Shaves His Head Following Tory Lanez Guilty Verdict

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The world is continuing to react to Tory Lanez being found guilty in his trial against Megan thee Stallion late last week.

Unfortunately for Yung Joc, the news caused clips of an interview he gave last week to resurface on social media.

Rapper/TV personality Yung Joc attends Trina’s 21st Anniversary of the “Baddest Chick” Celebration at TW Events Luxury Venue. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

In the clip from an interview with VladTV, the Atlanta native vows to shave his head bald if Lanez is found guilty.

“I’ma just say this, okay? I made a bet with Shyneka and Shawty Shawty on my morning show that if Tory is found guilty, I’ll shave my head. I’ll shave my whole head bald. I told Shyneka if Tory [is] innocent, she gotta come to work with the braids that be under the weave. Can’t get ’em fresh, I need the weave patted down braids, the Beyoncé pat my weave braids. She gotta come to work like that,” he says during the conversation.

“I can’t wait to see how this video turns out. Either way, this is a very unfortunate situation. Just through the eyes of watching it, I don’t ever want anyone to feel like I’m making fun of their situation, ’cause it’s very unfortunate and it’s very bad for our culture, but I pray that this plays out fair,” he clarifies afterwards.

It turns out Yung Joc is evidently a man of his word. On Tuesday (December 27), videos began surfacing online of the rapper’s fellow Morning Takeover host, Shyneka, proudly shaving his head.

“This [is] for Meg thee Stallion. This [is] for Meg and Roc Nation,” she exclaims in the footage.

Just a few weeks ago, the “It’s Goin’ Down” rapper was in the headlines following some controversial comments. During a different interview with VladTV, the Atlanta native shares his thoughts on the current state of females in the rap game.

“It’s already hard for women to find their place anyway. Even now, you got all these female rappers. Let’s give it another 180 days. Let’s give it to this time next year and let’s see if we got this many female rappers that’s buzzing. I bet you it won’t,” he says explicitly.

Nonetheless, what are your thoughts on Joc’s new look? Comment down below. Finally, make sure to tune in to our newest holiday playlist here.

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Tory Lanez Remanded As Parents Erupt In Courtroom

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The internet has lit up now that the verdict has been shared in the Tory Lanez case. The singer-rapper has been convicted of assault and weapons charges, and it’s reported he faces 22 years in prison. According to “Lawyers4Workers,” at the courthouse, when the verdict was read, Lanez stood motionless. Then, he was remanded on the spot and taken to jail. His sentencing will take place on January 27.

The reporter also stated that Lanez’s father, Sonstar Peterson, and stepmother created a scene. After the verdict was read, they allegedly began yelling in the court, and many targeted Roc Nation and Jay-Z. It’s said that Megan Thee Stallion’s attorneys are those of her management.

Read More: Tory Lanez Found Guilty Of All 3 Charges In Megan Thee Stallion Shooting

Additionally, reporter Meghann Cuniff gave more insight into the chaos inside the courtroom.

“Tory Lanez’s father stood up guest and screamed. ‘This is a wicked system!’ He screamed at the prosecutors that they are evil and they know exactly what they did here.” In another moment, “His stepmother stood up screaming and yelling. Father was yelling about ‘Roc Nation.’”

Cuniff also reported, “Tory Lanez was remanded on the spot, led out in handcuffs by sheriff’s deputies. There were six total in the courtroom, two at door and four behind Lanez, and there was quite a scene when they tried to get Lanez’s father and stepmother under control.”

Read More: Tory Lanez Too Short To Shoot Gun Over Door, Says His Attorney

“One woman in the gallery held up her hand as Tory’s father was screaming about Roc Nation and wicked injustice, repeating ‘In the name of Jesus!’” Also, “Deputies were forcing them all out into the hallway and telling the gallery we had to stay seated.”

“One woman turned and looked at the reporters sitting behind her, including me, and said, ‘Jay Z is a b*tch. Report that: Jay Z is a b*tch.’”

It was additionally stated Lanez’s young son began crying as sheriffs ushered out the rapper’s father. Social media has also been divided in reactions, as Lanez’s supporters have declared this a miscarriage of justice. However, the “#WeStandWithMegan” hashtag has taken over Twitter.

Check out more from Cuniff below.

ICYMI: Bill Cosby Found Guilty, Civil Jury Awards $500K to Judith Huth

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Bill Cosby, Bobby Shmurda, Kodak Black All Received Thanksgiving Meals

A jury in California decided that comedian, Bill Cosby is guilty of sexually assaulting Judith Huth, a then-teenage girl at the Playboy Mansion back in 1975.

On Tuesday, the jury came back with a verdict in the civil case against Cosby which found him liable and awarded Huth with the sum of $500,000 in damages. 

While no punitive compensation was awarded, 84-year-old Cosby, was served a major legal defeat. 

“We have always maintained that Judy Huth, Gloria Allred and their cohorts fabricated these false accusations, in order to force Mr. Cosby to finance their racist mission against successful and accomplished Black Men in America,” Cosby’s spokesperson said in a statement following the verdict. “Mr. Cosby continues to maintain his innocence and will vigorously fight these false accusations, so that he can get back to bringing the pursuit of happiness, joy and laughter to the world.”

READ MORE: Judge Orders Jury Deliberations to Start Over in Civil Case for Bill Cosby

According to Variety, Huth, who is now 64 years-old accused Cosby of luring her and a friend to the Playboy Mansion a few days after meeting him in a park. She claimed that Cosby took her alone into a bedroom, pulled down his sweatpants and then grabbed her hand in order to masturbate himself, forcing her into a sexual act.

The is the first case to go to trial under the Child Victims Act, which protects adults who suffered abuse as children and come forward with their accounts years later.

Prosecutors say there won’t be criminal charges because the case is past the statute of limitations. Cosby maintains the allegations are false. 

Share your comments with us on social media. 

The post ICYMI: Bill Cosby Found Guilty, Civil Jury Awards $500K to Judith Huth appeared first on The Source.

Bill Cosby Found Guilty, Civil Jury Awards $500K to Judith Huth

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Bill Cosby, Bobby Shmurda, Kodak Black All Received Thanksgiving Meals

A jury in California decided that comedian, Bill Cosby is guilty of sexually assaulting Judith Huth, a then-teenage girl at the Playboy Mansion back in 1975.

On Tuesday, the jury came back with a verdict in the civil case against Cosby which found him liable and awarded Huth with the sum of $500,000 in damages. 

While no punitive compensation was awarded, 84-year-old Cosby, was served a major legal defeat. 

“We have always maintained that Judy Huth, Gloria Allred and their cohorts fabricated these false accusations, in order to force Mr. Cosby to finance their racist mission against successful and accomplished Black Men in America,” Cosby’s spokesperson said in a statement following the verdict. “Mr. Cosby continues to maintain his innocence and will vigorously fight these false accusations, so that he can get back to bringing the pursuit of happiness, joy and laughter to the world.”

READ MORE: Judge Orders Jury Deliberations to Start Over in Civil Case for Bill Cosby

According to Variety, Huth, who is now 64 years-old accused Cosby of luring her and a friend to the Playboy Mansion a few days after meeting him in a park. She claimed that Cosby took her alone into a bedroom, pulled down his sweatpants and then grabbed her hand in order to masturbate himself, forcing her into a sexual act.

The is the first case to go to trial under the Child Victims Act, which protects adults who suffered abuse as children and come forward with their accounts years later.

Prosecutors say there won’t be criminal charges because the case is past the statute of limitations. Cosby maintains the allegations are false. 

Share your comments with us on social media. 

The post Bill Cosby Found Guilty, Civil Jury Awards $500K to Judith Huth appeared first on The Source.