guilty

Taxstone Sentencing Delayed

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After years of proceedings and weeks of taunting and beef, Taxstone’s fate following his guilty verdict on manslaughter charges hangs in the balance. Moreover, the court delayed his sentencing from April 19 to May 25, which is seven years to the day after the shooting the court found him guilty of. Furthermore, this information comes from court documents obtained by AllHipHop, which U.S. Attorney Damian Williams confirmed. For those unaware, officials arrested Taxstone (real name Daryl Campbell) in 2017 on charges related to a 2016 Irving Plaza shooting in New York City.

An escalation between Tax and rapper Troy Ave while a T.I. concert took place led to the death of Ave’s bodyguard, Ronald “Banga” McPhatter. Also, the incident caused several injuries, including to Troy himself. Later, authorities charged Taxstone with various offenses like illegal possession of a firearm and second-degree murder. While he pled guilty to gun charges in June of 2017, he maintained his innocence when it came to murder charges. In the years since, Tax and Troy Ave battled on social media and gave each other various taunts and threats.

The Court Delays Taxstone’s Sentencing

NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 11: (L-R) Loyal Duce, Taxstone, and Fame School Tell attend Highline Ballroom on August 11, 2015, in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Even though Ave also faced charges in connection to the deadly shooting, he testified against Campbell for a reduced sentence. “To all my real ones that been riding with & for Me, today is the day I finally get to clear my name,” he wrote on Instagram. “It’s been almost 7 years since I lost one of my closest friends #RIPBANGA, 7 years of a narrative about it being my fault, 7 years of my character being assassinated all the while Trying to defend myself without saying much!” The court also delayed his sentencing.

Meanwhile, District Attorney Alvin Bragg also addressed victory this case. “Daryl Campbell was convicted of killing a man and shooting three others during a tragic and deadly confrontation in a packed New York City music venue,” he stated. “In addition to seriously injuring his rival and killing his rival’s bodyguard, Mr. Campbell shot innocent bystanders and put hundreds of other lives at risk. We will vigorously prosecute anyone who commits this type of deadly violence.” For more updates on the Troy Ave and Taxstone case, come back to HNHH.

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Megan Thee Stallion Reflects On Tory Lanez’s Guilty Verdict

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Megan Thee Stallion says that the idea of people not believing her accusations against Tory Lanez never originally occurred to her. The Traumazine rapper reflected on the guilty verdict in Lanez’s trial during a new interview with Elle. She says that the extensive discussion will be her last public comment on the matter.

“It never crossed my mind that people wouldn’t believe me,” Megan said. “For years, my attacker tried to leverage social media to take away my power. Imagine how it feels to be called a liar every day?”

Megan Thee Stallion Arriving At Court

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 13: Megan Thee Stallion whose legal name is Megan Pete arrives at court to testify in the trial of Rapper Tory Lanez for allegedly shooting her on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The Toronto rapper ended up being found guilty of shooting Megan after a party in the summer of 2020. He was convicted on three felony counts and faces up to 20 years in prison. “Still, I knew the truth and the indisputable facts would prevail,” Megan continued. “I had worked way too hard to reach this point in my career to let taunts deter me. When the guilty verdict came on Dec. 23, 2022, it was more than just vindication for me, it was a victory for every woman who has ever been shamed, dismissed, and blamed for a violent crime committed against them.”

As for where she’s at now, Megan says that she’s doing much better but is still battling with leftover anxiety from the entire ordeal. “I’m in a happier place, but I still have anxiety,” she admitted to the outlet. “I’ve accepted this chapter of my life as part of my journey, but I will not allow it to define my journey. I’ve been dragged through the mud, but I’m so happy that I’m able to finally come out of it with a new perspective.”

Tory Lanez isn’t giving up yet, however. He’s filed a motion seeking a new trial while arguing jurors were “erroneously allowed” to see an Instagram comment. The comment reportedly shows Lanez stating that Megan’s former friend Kelsey Harris was not the shooter.

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Pop Smoke Murder Suspect Pleads Guilty, Sentenced To 4 Years: Report

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The death of Pop Smoke left a hole in the rap game, especially at a time when New York was reclaiming its sound. The rapper was shot and killed in the Hollywood Hills during a botched home invasion. Though there have been a number of conspiracy theories surrounding his death, police eventually apprehended three individuals they believe broke into the mansion on Feb. 19th, 2020, and murdered the rapper.

According to Associated Press, one of the individuals connected to the Brooklyn rapper’s death has pleaded guilty. The 20-year-old, who was 17 at the time of the murder, copped to one count of involuntary manslaughter on Thursday. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to another count of home invasion robbery. As part of the guilty plea, he received a sentence of four years and two months in a juvenile facility. Since he was a minor at the time of the shooting, the judge put a publication ban on his name.

One Man Pleads Guilty In Pop Smoke Murder Trial

NEW YORK, NY – JULY 31: Pop Smoke attends Lil Uzi Vert’s 25th Birthday at Moxy Hotel on July 31, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Throughout the investigation, detectives and prosecutors said that the three individuals located Pop Smoke’s mansion after he posted a picture of a gift bag with the address a day prior. The three individuals broke into the mansion where they found Pop Smoke in the shower. A struggle between Pop and one of the individuals broke out, leading to one of the attackers, who was 15 at the time, shooting the rapper in the back three times. The men left with diamond-encrusted Rolex and $2000 in cash.

Since Pop Smoke’s passing, his estate and friends have kept his name alive. A few months after his passing, 50 Cent, and Steven Victory released Shoot For The Stars Aim For The Moon, which boasted a star-studded tracklist including Quavo, Lil Baby, Future, Roddy Ricch, Fivio Foreign, Karol G, and more. A year later, they released Faith, which also included a number of heavy-hitter features. However, there hasn’t been anything in recent times indicating that another posthumous album is in the pipeline. We’ll keep you posted on any more updates on the murder trial surrounding Pop Smoke’s death. 

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Man Who Sold Michael K. Williams Laced Heroin Pleads Guilty

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One of four individuals charged in connection to Michael K. Williams’ tragic passing pleaded guilty to the charges. Moreover, Irvin Cartagena admitted to selling the acclaimed actor a fatal dose of fentanyl-laced heroin in 2021, thus pleading guilty to narcotics conspiracy resulting in death. However, according to reports from The New York Times, Cartagena (also known as “Green Eyes”) took a guilty plea with a lesser sentence of 24 to 30 years behind bars. “I knew my actions were wrong and against the law,” Cartagena remarked through his Spanish interpreter to Judge Ronnie Abrams. “I am very sorry for my actions.”

Furthermore, the remaining three individuals charged in this case (Luis Cruz, Carlos Macci, and Hector Robles) face similar charges of selling fentanyl-laced narcotics as part of a drug operation. Allegedly, they sold drugs out of an apartment in the Brooklyn borough, the neighborhood where Williams was found dead in his apartment on September 6th, 2021. On one hand, authorities will examine Macci in July after he pleaded guilty to a narcotics conspiracy charge. On the other, both Cruz and Robles pleaded not guilty to these crimes.

Michael K. Williams’ Dealer Pleads Guilty

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 04: Actor Michael K. Williams attends “The Hate U Give” New York Screening at the Paris Theatre on October 4, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/WireImage)

Not only that, but the charges against these individuals line up with what medical officials ruled concerning the 54-year-old’s untimely loss. Moreover, a medical examiner found that a fatal mixture of fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, cocaine, and heroin took his life. When authorities discovered his body, they also found drug paraphernalia and glassine bags with the tag, “AAA Insurance.” The Wire star’s tragic passing impacted millions of fans, his closest industry colleagues, and his family members in a cutting way. The actor’s nephew, Dominic Dupont, told The New York Times that Cartagena’s plea represents some form of closure, but not true reckoning.

“The reality is there are no winners here,” they expressed to the publication. “Michael was an amazing human being and to lose him is something that we’re still grappling with. The grieving process continues for myself and for my family.” Through his incredible work, his friends’ remembrance, and especially his family’s internal support, generations to come will know how much talent the entertainment world lost when he passed, and how he impacted his closest loved ones. Come back to HNHH for more updates on this story and share your favorite Michael K. Williams memories in the comments.

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XXXTENTACION Killer Blew A Kiss To Rapper’s Family After Guilty Verdict

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After nearly a week of deliberation, the verdict emerged in the XXXTENTACION murder trial. The three men who stood trial, Michael Boatwright, Trayvon Newsome, and Dedrick Williams, were found guilty on all counts. The jury convicted the three men of armed robbery and first-degree murder charges for killing XXXTENTACION in 2018. The first-degree murder charge itself carries a penalty of life in prison. However, Michael Boatwright, Trayvon Newsome, and Dedrick Williams will find out their sentence next month when they return to court. 

The defense did not provide any details surrounding their post-conviction plans after the trial concluded. However, fans noticed a suspicious moment when the judge read the verdict. As the jury declared one of XXXTENTACION killers, Michael Boatwright, guilty, he appeared to blow a kiss at the camera before a grin appeared on his face. The Miami Herald reports he directed the gesture toward XXXTENTACION’s family who attended court in anticipation of a guilty verdict. The evident lack of remorse will likely play a role in his sentencing next month. Still, X’s mother stated that “Justice was done,” as she left the courtroom on Monday. 

Michael Boatwright Convicted In XXXTENTACION’s Murder Case

Police previously established Michael Boatwright as one of two gunmen, alongside Trayvon Newsome, who fatally shot XXXTENTACION. Police said Dedrick Williams served as the getaway driver during the botched robbery. Throughout the trial, the defense attorneys attempted to debunk each piece of evidence presented to the court. When the photos of the suspects flashing cash came up, Boatwright’s lawyer Joseph Kimok confirmed that they held up the money but denied his client pulled the trigger.

Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome will return to court on April 6th for sentencing. However, the judge will sentence the fourth suspect, Robert Allen, who testified against the other three, six days later. Regardless, XXXTENTACION’s mom and the mother of the rapper’s child expressed gratitude for the outcome. Both said the court delivered justice for the late rapper. “Thank you for the love and support. I am eternally grateful for all of the supporters, your positivity, and prayers have carried these last 5 years,” Jenesis Sanchez wrote. Check out the video of Michael Boatwright above.

XXXTENTACION’s Son’s Mom Reacts To The Guilty Verdict: “You May Finally Rest In Peace”

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The mother of XXXTENTACION’s son spoke out following the guilty verdict against the three men involved in his murder. Jenesis Sanchez, the mother of 4-year-old Gekyume, celebrated the jury’s decision after 6+ days of deliberation. “After 5 long years you may finally rest in peace. Gekyume will never get to meet you earthside but it is my job as a mother to ensure I share those special memories with him,” she wrote on Instagram. “Jah was robbed of his life and Geky was robbed of his father. For this, I will never truly have complete peace but justice being served today helps the healing process.”

Though Sanchez has been relatively quiet in the public eye since XXXTENTACION’s son’s birth, she expressed gratitude to the legions of fans and friends who’ve shown out for her during the past five years. “Thank you for the love and support,” she added in her post. “I am eternally grateful for all of the supporters, your positivity, and prayers have carried these last 5 years.” It’s undoubtedly a bit of a relief following a tumultuous few months of trial that found the defense damn near making a mockery out of XXXTENTACION’s death.

Jenesis Sanchez Speaks On XXXTENTACION’s Death

Cleopatra Bernard, XXXTENTACION’s mother, also reacted to the news on Instagram. Bernard shared a post on her Instagram account where she celebrated the guilty verdict, saying that her son finally received justice. “I Made sure you were present in the room,” Cleo added alongside a photo of herself wearing a t-shirt with the rapper’s face on it. There’s no doubt that many of X’s friends and fans feel similar to both Bernard and Sanchez.

Following deliberation that began last week, the jury found Dedrick Williams, 26; Trayvon Newsome, 24; and Michael Boatwright, 28, guilty of first-degree murder and armed robbery. The fourth suspect, Robert Allen, took a plea deal last summer and testified against his co-defendants during the trial. The first-degree murder charge carries a life sentence but the three men won’t face sentencing until April. We’ll keep you posted on anymore updates surrounding the sentencing date. Check out Jenesis Sanchez’s post above. 

Kodak Black Defends Tory Lanez After Guilty Verdict

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Kodak Black came to the defense of Tory Lanez after the Canadian rapper was found guilty in the 2020 shooting of Megan Thee Stallion. Kodak says that there’s “no evidence” Lanez is responsible for the crime.

“This shit ain’t right, homie. For real, bro,” Kodak said on Instagram Live recently. “And Tory Lanez a good n***a, bro… This shit fucking with my Christmas Eve. Everybody shit ain’t for me to speak on, but it’s like n****s ain’t finna talk about that. N****s finna act like this shit ain’t never happen. I don’t know, I wasn’t in the courtroom. But at the same time, if it is some fucked up shit going on, n****s ain’t gonna wanna say nothing because of the politics bullshit. And all of this Jay-Z shit, but I don’t like that shit nan bit.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 20: Rapper Kodak Black performs onstage during the ‘Dying to Live’ tour at Hollywood Palladium on March 20, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

“Now, I’m a God-fearing n***a,” Kodak further added. “If my brother actually did do that shit, God gon’ see it through where he get the justifiable punishment he feel like he deserves for that.”

“They done caught this female in a few lies and shit,” he continued, “and then, how you find a n***a guilty for shooting the bitch, when ain’t no evidence behind it? Y’all talking ’bout, bitch had gun residue and another person. And ain’t nobody came through and say, ‘Yea, he did that shit.’ That shit don’t sit well with me.”

A jury found Lanez guilty of three charges in connection to the shooting: assault with a semiautomatic firearm, carrying a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharging a firearm in a grossly negligent manner to cause bodily injury. The trial lasted nearly two weeks, while the prosecution presented testimony and evidence to the 12-person jury.

Lanez faces up to 22 years in prison as well as deportation back to Canada. His sentencing is scheduled for next month.

Check out Kodak Black’s full comments on Tory Lanez below.

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Tory Lanez Guilty Verdict Breaks The Internet As Celebs React

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After news spread of Tory Lanez and Megan Thee Stallion’s court case, people reacted with shock, satisfaction, and everything in between. Moreover, the court found Lanez guilty of assault, gross negligence, and carrying an unregistered firearm in a vehicle. Afterwards, Tory Lanez’s guilty verdict lit a fire on social media, prompting reactions on all corners of Twitter.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 28: Tory Lanez attends Sorry For What Event on September 28, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Meanwhile, one of the most notable celebrity responses came thanks to Iggy Azalea. After fans attacked her online, since Tory was meant to executive produce her new album, she set the record straight. Moreover, she responded to a user who pointed out the hypothetical nature of that criticism.

“Thank you,” the “Fancy” rapper wrote. “This is all I ask. Now isn’t the time to talk about a hypothetical album I’m yet to create or who will E.P it. Give me a min, y’all can fell however you want about whoever you want – that’s all good. But this isn’t the forum to discuss it. Happy holidays.”

However, others like Carl Crawford criticized Tory’s incarceration just a couple of days before Christmas. Additionally, he said that every Black man likely has the same reaction to Lanez getting a maximum of 22 years in jail.

“That’s cold-blooded…” the 1501 CEO said. “Two days before Christmas… 20 plus years… now, if a Black man don’t feel that, that’s cold.”

Many have also brought up the following tweet from the Canadian rapper in light of his verdict.

“I’m going to leave this here one more time… and watch how it ages… NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST ME SHALL PROSPER… AND EVERY TONGUE THAT RISES AGAINST ME IN JUDGEMENT SHALL BE CONDEMNED u sit and watch now… And don’t ever question the GOD I serve again. This is my last tweet,” he said back on December 7th.

Furthermore, many other celebrities reacted including Melii, Baby Tate, Jonathan Wright, Anthony Fantano, Lil Ju, and more. Still, reactions have been relatively mixed, with some outraged at the verdict. However, it seems many are grateful for justice for Meg.

But what do you think of Tory Lanez’s guilty verdict? Let us know in the comments below and check out some more reactions to the verdict down there as well. Also, as always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest in the Tory/Meg saga.

Harvey Weinstein Convicted On 3 Of 7 Charges In Sexual Assault Trial

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Harvey Weinstein is facing 24 years in prison after a court found him guilty of rape and sexual assault. The charges stem from one of four women prosecutors accused him of assaulting in Los Angeles for the case. In total, the jury found him guilty of three of seven charges.

Weinstein’s spokesperson Juda Engelmayer reacted to the decision in a statement. He remarked that they are “disappointed” in the results and plan to appeal, before adding, “He is grateful the jury took their time to deliberate on the other counts and he is prepared to continue fighting for his innocence.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 04: Former film producer Harvey Weinstein appears in court at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center on October 4, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. Harvey Weinstein was extradited from New York to Los Angeles to face sex-related charges. (Photo by Etienne Laurent-Pool/Getty Images)

The L.A. jury deliberated for a total of 41 hours before reaching their decision. While they found him guilty on three charges, jurors also acquitted Weinstein of one count of sexual battery by restraint against a massage therapist in a hotel room in 2010. They were also a hung jury on one count of sexual battery by restraint, one count of forcible oral copulation, and one count of rape related to two other women.

Jennifer Siebel Newsom was the victim in the last charge. She’s the wife of California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Newsome released a statement responding to the results.

“I am so incredibly proud of my wife and all the brave women who came forward to share their truth and uplift countless survivors who cannot,” Newsom said in part.

Jurors will return to court, Tuesday, to consider aggravating factors. This will impact Weinstein’s sentencing hearing, according to the DA’s office.

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