judge ruling

Afrika Bambaataa’s Alleged Victim Pushes For Ruling In Sexual Abuse Case

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Back in 2016, former music executive and politician Ronald Savage came forward to accuse Afrika Bambaataa of molesting him in the late 70s, when he was between the ages of 12 and 14. After he shared his story, various other alleged victims spoke out with similar accusations. One of his former bodyguards even suggested that he may have witnessed some concerning activity. As a result, Bambaataa was kicked out of Zulu Nation, an international hip-hop awareness group he founded himself in 1973.

Now, one of Bambaataa’s anonymous alleged victims, who accused the artist of child sexual abuse and sex trafficking in a 2021 lawsuit, is urging the judge to make a ruling. According to an exclusive report by AllHipHop, John Doe previously filed a motion seeking a default judgment. In new court documents from earlier this week, he asks the judge for an update.

Read More: Shyne Nightclub Shooting Victim Says Diddy Is Responsible For Her Life-Changing 1999 Injuries

Afrika Bambaataa’s Anonymous Accuser Wants An Update

Afrika Bambaataa's Alleged Victim Pushes For Ruling In Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
Afrika Bambaataa performs at Brooklyn Bowl on February 26, 2015, in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

“From 1991 to 1995, Plaintiff was invited to Defendant’s apartment, located in the BRH, where he was repeatedly subjected to sexual abuse consisting of mutual masturbation and sodomy,” the lawsuit alleges. “During the same time period, Plaintiff was transported by Defendant Taylor, to other locations and offered for sex to other adult men in exchange for money. Defendant Taylor, intentional sexual assault of Plaintiff was for his own sexual gratification and without regard for the Plaintiff’s well-being. Defendant Taylor, performed the aforementioned actions for his own sexual gratification and without Plaintiff’s consent.”

Allegedly, the victim was only 12 years old when the abuse began. He later sued Bambaataa for assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and gross negligence. Universal Zulu Nation and XYZ Corp were additionally named as defendants in the suit. What do you think of Afrika Bambaataa’s alleged victim urging a judge to decide on their motion for a default judgment? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: Afrika Bambaataa Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Legend

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YNW Melly Judge Will Grant Mistrial If Jury Remains In Deadlock

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YNW Melly is nearing closer to finding out his fate in his Broward County double murder trial. Like most high-profile cases, we’ve seen plenty of ups and downs over the weeks. For the most part, recent updates have appeared to be leaning in the prosecution’s favour. However, on Friday (July 21), Cathy Russon reported from the courthouse that the death-qualified jury serving the case is struggling to come to a final decision. Earlier this afternoon they sent a note indicating deadlock, explaining that “everyone is stuck on which side they’ve chosen.”

The state suggested that the judge read the Allen Charge, while the defense and judge agree that this note “doesn’t necessarily say they ARE deadlocked, just what if that happens.” Since then, further updates from Russon have indicated that Melly’s jurors are in fact struggling to come to an agreement. In response, they’ve been asked to attempt their deliberations one final time. If at that point they’re still unable to reach a consensus, a mistrial will be granted.

Read More: YNW Melly’s Lawyer Compares Him To Snoop Dogg

YNW Melly Double Murder Trial Jury in Deadlock

 

 
 
 
 
 
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The 23-year-old’s attorneys filed a motion for a mistrial earlier this month but were ultimately denied their request. It’s worth noting that if the jury fails to reach a consensus today, Melly won’t necessarily be free. If the prosecution refiles its case, the process will begin again, marking another rollercoaster of emotions for the Florida native and his family.

Russon’s latest update came minutes ago, revealing that the jury has sent out another note, specifically a question for the judge. Social media is eagerly awaiting more information, and we’ll be sure to provide it as it comes.

Read More: YNW Melly Will Not Testify, Defense & Prosecution Rest Their Cases

Judge Will Grant Mistrial if Jury Remains in Deadlock

See a snippet from the Law & Crime live stream where it was confirmed that a mistrial will be granted if the jury is unable to reach a decision below. Do you have any predictions as to what YNW Melly’s fate might be when all is said and done? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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YNW Melly Update: Undercover Detective Will Remove Ski Mask For Testimony, Judge Rules

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It’s Monday once again, and while most of the world is back at their 9-5, YNW Melly is back in court for his double murder trial. Proceedings officially began earlier this month in Broward County, several years after the young rapper turned himself into the police. Things initially seemed to be going in Melly’s favour, however, evidence submitted last week shows alleged texts between the 23-year-old and his mother, Jamie King, in which he asked her to bring him a gun around the time of YNW Juvy and YNW SakChaser’s deaths.

Detective Danny Polo, who’s incredibly familiar with Melly’s case, took the stand ahead of the weekend as a witness for the prosecution. At the time, he donned a court-sanctioned ski mask to help conceal his identity out of concern for his family. However, according to Law & Crime, one of the jury members expressed an issue with this in a note to Judge John Murphy III. When court resumed this morning (June 26), correspondent Bryson “Boom” Paul shared on Twitter that Polo will be removing his mask for the remainder of his testimony.

Read More: Undercover Detective Testifies At YNW Melly’s Trial Wearing A Ski Mask

YNW Melly’s Trial Resumes Today

Since Judge Murphy’s ruling, the defense has hardly made objections, though Melly’s attorney did speak out when what sounds like his voice was played in an audio recording of a phone call. According to Polo’s testimony, he believes that the Florida native was being recruited by two separate G-Shine Bloods gang members.

While listening to the call, the undercover detective shared that he’s “listened to hours of Melly’s music, watched music videos, and listened to jail phone calls,” making him one of the strongest witnesses we’ve seen take the stand so far.

Read More: YNW Melly Asked His Mom To Buy Him A Legal Gun, Prosecution Claims In Ongoing Trial

More Updates from the Courtroom

Keep scrolling to read more live updates from Bryson “Boom” Paul in Broward County this afternoon. What are your thoughts on Judge Murphy III’s new ruling about Detective Polo’s ski mask? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more updates on YNW Melly and your favourite artists.

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Tory Lanez Attempt To Get Judge Disqualified Is Rejected

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Tory Lanez, the disgraced rapper, has exhausted all his options for freedom. He is now awaiting his sentencing in the shooting case involving Megan Thee Stallion. Lanez and his team attempted to have the judge disqualified. However, a new order was handed down today rejecting that request. Judge David Herriford initially stated that there were no facts or circumstances requiring his disqualification or recusal in the case. The Appellate Court also confirmed that the judge had done nothing to warrant his removal. The Appellate Court’s decision stated that the petition was denied due to a failure to demonstrate entitlement to extraordinary relief.

Earlier, Lanez’s lawyers, Matthew Barhoma and Jose Baez, filed a motion to disqualify Judge Herriford. They had accused him of showing favoritism to the prosecution. Herriford presided over Lanez’s two-week trial in December. As most know, it resulted in his conviction on three felony counts related to the 2020 shooting of Megan Thee Stallion. The judge also denied Lanez’s motion for a new trial in May. In their petition, filed after the dismissal of their new trial motion, Barhoma and Baez cited several instances of Herriford’s alleged partiality during a hearing in the previous month. They claimed that the judge directed them to present arguments in the order he preferred. Additionally, they say he did not allow witnesses for live testimony and interrupted and cut them off during arguments.

Tory Lanez Could Be Facing 22 Years, Prosecution Seeking 12 Year Sentence

Tory Lanez attends Rolling Stone Live Big Game Experience at Academy LA on February 13, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for MCM)

Prosecutors in Los Angeles are reportedly seeking a 13-year prison sentence for Tory Lanez. Lanez was convicted of three felony charges in December. The rapper could face a maximum sentence of 22 years and eight months. A memorandum filed by the prosecution highlights Lanez’s use of words and his online presence. They say that he has re-traumatized the victim through his posts over the course of three years. The memo argues that Lanez’s global reach and the impact of his words have contributed to the victim’s re-traumatization. As such, they want to hold him responsible for the effect of his actions. The document also mentions Lanez’s album, Daystar. It references the shooting in its lyrics. as well as his attack on August Alsina in September 2022.

The prosecution’s memo comes after Lanez and his legal team attempted to disqualify Judge David Herriford, accusing him of favoritism. Herriford presided over Lanez’s trial in December and recently rejected his motion for a new trial. In response to the accusations, Herriford stated that his rulings were based on presented facts and arguments and that his actions were in line with his judicial duties. Lanez’s sentencing is scheduled for June 13.

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YNW Melly’s Death Penalty Potential Made Easier By Florida Judge

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The long-awaited trial for YNW Melly’s murder case is finally due to kick off later this month. Unfortunately, the Florida native received some bad news ahead of that regarding the death penalty. It was previously taken off the table for Melly, but ultimately later put back on after the ruling was found to be faulty. Since then, the 23-year-old has continued to campaign for his freedom with the help of attorneys, family, friends, and fans.

Even from behind bars Melly has managed to get messages out via Instagram. In one from earlier this year, the “Murder On My Mind” artist shared that he’s “in fear of [his] life” behind bars while awaiting his fate. YNW has allegedly dealt with harsh deputies, lieutenants, and sergeants, all of whom he says are threatening to “hide [him] from the world.” The original posts are no longer on his profile, leaving only more recent snapshots of the embattled star smiling while wearing a suit in court.

Read More: YNW Melly Is “In Fear Of [His] Life” According To Lengthy IG Posts

YNW Melly is Eager to Come Home

 

 
 
 
 
 
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As XXL reports, on Friday (June 2) Broward Circuit Judge John Murphy agreed with state prosecutors who filed a motion following a new statute allowing jury members to recommend a death sentence with an 8-4 vote. Before this, all 12 jurors would have to vote for the fatal penalty. Melly will officially be one of the first tried under the harsh new rule following Parkland High School shooter Nikolas Cruz’s recent denial due to a 9-3 vote from the jury.

Of all the states where it’s still legal, Florida now has the lowest threshold for handing out a death sentence in the country. Read all about the jury selection process for YNW Melly’s upcoming trial at the link below. Do you think the judge’s new ruling is fair for the young rapper? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

Read More: YNW Melly’s Trial Begins Jury Selection

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Dame Dash Ordered To Turn Over Tax Returns

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A judge recently ordered Dame Dash to hand over his tax returns, a legal battle that stems from an earlier lawsuit. Moreover, filmmaker Josh Webber wants to see his 2021 and 2022 documents to collect a huge judgement from a successful lawsuit he filed against the Roc-A-Fella cofounder. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, these revelations could further inform Webber of Dame’s assets, sources of income, business dealings, and possible conflicts of interest. Furthermore, the filmmaker originally sued him in 2019 after he and Muddy Water Pictures claimed they hired Dash to co-direct the film Dear Frank in 2016, but fired him two years later for allegedly being high on set.

However, that’s not the true crux of the case, as the 51-year-old allegedly promoted himself as a producer for the flick after his removal from the project. This is what prompted legal action, especially since Dame Dash was changing the title of the film to The List according to the suit. Eventually, in March of 2022, Webber and Muddy Waters Pictures emerged victorious against the music executive, which brings us here.

Dame Dash Must Hand Over Tax Returns

BURBANK, CA – APRIL 03: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been shot in black and white. Color version not available.) Damon Dash attends Damon Dash Celebrates the Launch of Dame Dash Studios at DDS33 on April 3, 2019 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Damon Dash Studios)

Moreover, the jury awarded the film company $30,000 for copyright infringement and $125,000 in punitive damages. On his end, Webber received $400,000 in compensatory damages for defamation and $250,000 in punitive damages. All in all, the multimedia entrepreneur owed a total of $805,000 to plaintiffs. Regardless, he still posted on his Instagram about the case and stood by his side of the story. “You have to lose some battles to win a war,” he expressed. “Stay tuned #fatliars #youllneverbeme. Don’t ever say you Directed MY movie.”

Despite all this, Jay-Z’s former partner continued to misstep in the legal process, at least on paper. He did not respond to debtor interrogatory discovery in December of 2022, and did not produce requested tax returns in 2023. Also, he missed an additional date in February, adding to his record. That $800,000 remains due, according to reports. With all that being said, come back to HNHH for more updates on this story and the latest on Dame Dash.

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YSL Judge Holds Potential Juror In Contempt For Contacting Reporter In Young Thug Trial

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Judge Glanvile of the YSL RICO case found a potential juror in contempt (in other words, disobeyed court orders) for reaching out to a reporter concerning the Young Thug trial. Moreover, the juror will now pay the price. Furthermore, Glanville ordered the juror to ten hours of community service concerning “behavior, choices, and consequences.” Also, the juror must attend the first five days of trial regardless of jury selection. In a clip shared to social media of the judge’s ruling, the juror said they take full responsibility for their actions.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 17: Rapper Young Thug performs at halftime during the Boston Celtics v Atlanta Hawks game at State Farm Arena on November 17, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Glanville could’ve sentenced the juror to 20 days in jail for willful contempt. Instead, he opted for community service hours and trial sit-ins, which he believes will satisfy contempt. During the exchange, the judge reminded the potential jurors of the consequences their actions could bring. “This is how we have hiccups in trials and we have to sometimes start over,” he shared. “Because people don’t do what they’re supposed to do.” Overall, perhaps this juror’s actions will result in information leaks, another reversal of jury selection, or more dire consequences. After all, Jeffrey Williams and his YSL codefendants are on dangerously thin ice, and one small detail could mean disaster.

Of course, this isn’t the first time that Judge Glanville took issue with a juror’s irresponsibility. Some time ago, he ordered a juror to write a 30-page essay on the importance of jury duty. Moreover, it seems they handed in their report and the judge expressed satisfaction with it. Whereas he excused many jurors for various reasons, the court brought in yet another batch of potential jurors. With the trial expected to take a year or maybe more, these jury delays certainly don’t bode well.

Still, Thugger’s trial took shape in other ways this week. For example, he listed music industry executives Kevin Liles and Lyor Cohen as potential witnesses to the stand. Both share a close relationship with the “Check” MC, with Liles in particular penning a message of support recently. “The man I know is a loving father, great business partner and an inspiration to so many people around the world,” he wrote. “Stay strong my brother and you know where I stand…” Stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on the YSL case and Young Thug.

Meek Mill Reacts To Judge Who Sentenced Him Getting In Trouble For Misconduct

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Whether it’s immediately or years after the fact, you can always depend on karma coming to bite you in some way. Meek Mill’s former judge learned that this week, as authorities stripped her of over 50 cases she was presiding over. Mill excitedly shared the news via Instagram and wrote a pretty emblematic caption.

PHILADELPHIA, PA – NOVEMBER 03: Meek Mill pumps up the crowd prior to Game 5 of the 2022 World Series between the Houston Astros and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Thursday, November 3, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

“The judge who sentenced Meek Mill to 4 years for doing a wheelie on a dirt bike had her criminal cases stripped,” the post read. “+50 of her cases were terminated by another judge over 2 days.” For those unfamiliar, stripping a case usually refers to a judge’s inadequate job of properly attending the case. While this suggested many different things, Meek clearly interpreted it as payback for the way she handled his case.

“For motivation use only -standing at the scratch line,” he wrote as a caption to the post. In addition to that caption, he also shared various pictures of himself during his legal processes. Although it’s Meek’s post, he decided to let “GRATEFUL” by DJ Khaled and Vory in the background.

Meanwhile, the Philly rapper has a lot to be grateful for, and acted to give that gratitude back. As cofounder of REFORM Alliance, he paid bail for twenty incarcerated women to be with their families for the holidays. Also, this comes after the organization’s Season of Giving events in New York City, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia. Alongside partnerships with Nike, sports teams, and many others, they supported and championed children negatively affected by the justice system.

“It was devastating for me to be away from my son during the holidays when I was incarcerated, “ Meek said in a statement. “So I understand what these women and their families are going through. No one should have to spend the holidays in jail simply because they can’t afford bail. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help these women be with their families and loved ones during this special time of year.”

What do you think of Meek Mill’s judge clap-back and community efforts? Let us know in the comments down below and stay tuned to HNHH for the latest in rap activism.