murder trial Archives - Page 3 of 8

Keefe D Says His Comments On 2Pac Are “Entertainment”

December 19, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Keefe D says that the various interviews he’s given over the years discussing the death of 2Pac were for “entertainment” and that he was operating under the assumption he had immunity. His legal team made the argument in a new court filing obtained by AllHipHop, ahead of his upcoming murder trial. Additionally, his legal team says the comments he made in the interviews are unverified.

His lawyers say prosecutors “did not introduce any independent evidence connecting Duane Davis to the shooting” and instead used Keefe D’s book, Compton Street Legend, as well as “an astounding amount of hearsay.”

Keefe D Appears In Court For Arraignment

Duane “Keefe D” Davis, 60, walks out after a court appearance in Las. Vegas on October 19, 2023 for his arraignment on murder charges in the death of rapper Tupac Shakur. Shakur, 25, died on September 7, 1996, six days after being shot while in a car near the Las. Vegas Strip. (Photo by John Locher / POOL / AFP) (Photo by JOHN LOCHER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

“The book and video interviews were produced for a financial benefit under the belief that Duane had immunity.” Keefe D’s attorneys continued. “The truthfulness of the content of the interviews was never verified. The book and interviews were done for entertainment purposes and to make money from a situation that Kading and others had already profited.” With their filing, the lawyers argue their client should be released prior to trial. They say he is “not a threat to the community,” nor “a flight risk.” He will even offer to wear an ankle bracelet.

Police first arrested Keefe D back in September and charged him with first-degree murder in the infamous 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur. He spoke about the killing in numerous interviews over the last two decades, as recently as earlier this year with VladTV. His next court date is set for January 2, while his trial will begin in June. Be on the lookout for further updates on Keefe D’s case on HotNewHipHop.

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Vanilla Ice Recalls 2Pac Labeling Him “Great” & Admits He Knows “Too Much” About His Death

December 6, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Vanilla Ice says 2Pac once labeled him “one of the great ones” and that he knows “too much” about his killing. Speaking with VladTV for a new interview, the “Ice Ice Baby” rapper reflected on his friendship with 2Pac.

“He goes, ‘I want you to know, you’re one of the great ones, you’re dope, you’re going to leave your mark, your legacy,’ and this is before it happened,” Ice said. “He knew it, this guy had a crystal ball he saw things bro, and it makes me get goosebumps.”

Keefe D Appears In Court For Arraignment In 2Pac’s Murder

Duane “Keefe D” Davis, 60, arrives in a Las. Vegas court on October 19, 2023, for his arraignment on murder charges in the death of rapper Tupac Shakur. Shakur, 25, died on September 7, 1996, six days after being shot while in a car near the Las Vegas Strip. (Photo by John Locher / POOL / AFP) (Photo by JOHN LOCHER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

From there, Ice discussed other shootings that 2Pac was involved in prior to the fatal Las Vegas drive-by in 1996. “How can a guy have all these bullets flying at him and still, you know what I’m saying? It’s a cr*zy story, and I got to really watch what I say on all this because I do know too much,” Ice said. “I’m not going to elaborate fair enough, so I let that unfold, and I’m glad it’s unfolding, and I’m glad that some justice may be getting done, but it ain’t going to bring him back, bro, and we lost a great person because of greed, money, power. We lost a great poet.” Check out Vanilla Ice’s full comments on 2Pac below.

Vanilla Ice Discusses 2Pac

While it took over two decades, police finally arrested Keefe D in the killing of 2Pac, earlier this year. His trial is set to begin on June 3, 2024. Be on the lookout for further updates on Vanilla Ice as well as Keefe D’s upcoming trial on HotNewHipHop.

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YNW Melly‘s Mom Reacts To Trial Date Delay: “I’m Sorry, Kid”

November 15, 2023 by newhiphopnews

YNW Melly‘s mother, Jamie King, has responded to the news that her son’s murder retrial has been pushed back on her Instagram Story, Tuesday. Judge John Murphy ruled, earlier this week, that the rapper will not stand trial in the case again until February. He cited “extraordinary circumstances” in handing down the decision.

“I’m sorry, kid [teary-eyed emoji][broken heart emoji],” she captioned one photo of the headlines. In another post, she elaborated: “Lawsuits, lies, delayed trials, overdue bill, seeing death everyday at work but have no choice but to work. Broken heart, sadness, stress, tears, fears, 5 years.”

YNW Melly’s Trial Pushed Back

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – FEBRUARY 13: In this handout photo provided by the Broward’s Sheriff’s Office, rapper Y.N.W. Melly’s seen after being charged with two counts of murder in the first degree February 13, 2019, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Demons allegedly conspired with Cortlen Henry to fatally shot two other Florida based rappers, Christopher. Thomas Jr. and Anthony Williams, October 26. (Photo by Broward’s Sheriff’s Office via Getty Images)

The trial delay comes following the defense’s recent request to start the jury selection process over again. They had made an error they made while presenting instructions to the group. After accidentally telling them they needed to find the rapper guilty of everything of which he’s accused to proceed with a guilty verdict, they argued that the misstep would cause them to lose “all credibility with the jurors should the court read that instruction.”

YNW Melly’s Mom Reacts To Trial Date

YNW Melly’s mother reacts to double murder retrial being delayed to 2024 pic.twitter.com/9JdgjTjyY5

— HipHopDX (@HipHopDX) November 15, 2023

The state disagreed with the defense’s motion. “While the state understands the court acting in an abundance of caution, objections being sustained and jury instructions being read by the court to rectify the misstatement of law should not rise to the level of starting over,” prosecutors argued. “All of this time being spent on jurors that have now been struck could have gone to time both sides clearly need to further prepare for the trial. The state does not want this to become a pattern where with each objection made, another group of jurors is struck.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Melly’s upcoming trial on HotNewHipHop. He will now stand trial on February 5, 2024.

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YNW Melly’s Murder Retrial Delayed Once Again

November 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

YNW Melly’s murder retrial has been pushed back to February 5, 2024. According to Law & Crime, Judge John Murphy made the decision earlier this week after prosecutors requested a delay. In doing so, he cited “extraordinary circumstances” warranting the extension. The trial was originally set to begin a month earlier.

Melly’s mother reacted to the news in a post on social media, Monday. “Lawsuits, lies, delayed trials, overdue bill, seeing death everyday at work but have no choice but to work,” she wrote on her Instagram Story. “Broken heart, sadness, stress, tears, fears, 5 years.”

YNW Melly Booked In Florida

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – FEBRUARY 13: In this handout photo provided by the Broward’s Sheriff’s Office, rapper YNW Melly, real name Jamell Demons, is seen in a police booking photo after being charged with two counts of murder in the first degree February 13, 2019 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Demons allegedly conspired with Cortlen Henry to fatally shot two other Florida based rappers, Christopher Thomas Jr and Anthony Williams, October 26. (Photo by Broward’s Sheriff’s Office via Getty Images)

The prosecution requested a delay in the trial’s start date, earlier this month, citing several reasons. “Throughout the defendant’s 20+ pleadings and in court hearings, the defendant complains of the number of witnesses that must be deposed as well as the many motions that must be heard,” prosecutors wrote in one motion. “The defendant complains that the state has filed motions after the court’s discovery cut off, yet the defendant himself has also filed motions after this date. Several of the state’s motions are a result of the defendant’s new criminal activity.” They added: “It is abundantly evident that the defendant is not ready for trial.”

Another primary reason for the delay is the jury selection. Due to an error on the part of the defense, the process needed to be restarted, last week. Melly’s team had incorrectly instructed the jury that they needed to find the rapper guilty of everything of which he’s accused to proceed with a guilty verdict, which isn’t the case. Be on the lookout for further updates on Melly’s upcoming trial on HotNewHipHop.

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Young Dolph’s Murder Trial’s Judge Removed, Will Get Replacement: Report

October 28, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The murder trial of Young Dolph was already a complicated and arduously lengthy affair, but things just got another twist. Moreover, the Court of Criminal Appeals removed Judge Lee Coffee from the case, according to AllHipHop, who presided over the case up until this point. For those unaware, four individuals currently face charges for the 2021 murder of the Memphis rapper at his favorite bakery, Makeda’s Homemade Cookies. Specifically, Coffee’s recusal reportedly stems from his alleged mistreatment of one of the defendants, Justin Johnson. Also known by his rap name Straight Drop, he released the track “No Statements” from behind bars last year on YouTube.

Furthermore, Judge Lee Coffee apparently got in touch with the chief jailer and demanded that Young Dolph’s accused killer move to administrative isolation. He made this request despite conclusions from prison authorities that this release did not break any regulations. Afterwards, Johnson’s lawyers requested Coffee’s removal, which the judge obviously dismissed but could not prevent form moving to a successful appeal. As such, the Court of Criminal Appeals stated that “it would appear to a reasonable person that Judge Coffee has a prejudice of a personal character directed at the defendant.”

The Song That Got Young Dolph’s Murder Trial’s Judge Mad- And In Trouble

Their ruling severed Coffee from the Young Dolph case, responding directly to previously overlooked power imbalances and a lack of impartiality. This means that this trial needs a new judge, which will likely enter the case within due time. Hopefully it’s quickly, as this process could delay an already years-long case with more roadblocks in its way that don’t relate to this. While the defendants could face a better chance with another authority at the head, the opposite is equally possible, and justice could come more effectively now.

Meanwhile, this comes as folks continue to celebrate Dolph’s legacy, impact, and reverence within his community and the representation of Memphis rap across the whole genre. Even though it’s unclear what implications this judge swap will yield for the case, fans are holding out hope that this is the light at the end of the tunnel. Until we fully emerge on the other side, though, anything could happen. For more news and the latest updates on Young Dolph, log back into HNHH.

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Takeoff’s Alleged Killer Is Reportedly Looking To Claim “Self-Defense” In Murder Trial

October 27, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Takeoff tragically passed away around this time last year in what can only be described as a horrific incident. Overall, the artist was with Quavo and some friends at the time. They were all at a bowling alley when a fight broke out. Subsequently, shots rang off and Take was fatally injured. Since that time, many have mourned his passing. In fact, Quavo delivered a new album called “Rocket Power” which was an homage to the late rapper.

Yesterday, according to Rolling Stone, his alleged killer, Patrick Xavier Clark, was in court. Based on the report, it is clear that Clark is looking to maintain his innocence here. However, he may have to wait until the second half of 2024 for the trial to officially begin. As for his lawyer Letitia Quinones-Hollins, she is claiming that the whole thing can be chalked up to “self-defense.” When it comes down to it, that will likely be their position in the trial.

Patrick Xavier Clark Goes To Court

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 25: Takeoff of Migos performs onstage during Global Citizen Live on September 25, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Global Citizen)

“He maintains his innocence,” She said. “We do believe that he has a valid self-defense claim. I don’t think they can say with any degree of certainty that it was Patrick who actually fired the shot that took TakeOff’s life. There was someone else who started the shooting, it was not Patrick Clark. He was in the same position that TakeOff was in, he was trying to get out of there alive as well. He didn’t have anything to do with the argument that occurred. [Clark] just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when people started firing weapons.”

This is a developing story, so sure to stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest updates. We will always seek to keep you informed. Additionally, let us know your thoughts on the situation, in the comments section below.

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Jam Master Jay’s Murder Trial Could Have Two Separate Juries

October 25, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Justice has been a long time coming for rap legend Jam Master Jay. The Run-DMC member was tragically murdered in a New York recording studio all the way back in 2002. Now, prosecution of his alleged killers is finally being pursued. The three defendants Karl Jordan Jr, Ronald Washington, and Jay Bryant are all set to go on trial for the murder. It’s unclear at the time who was responsible for the actual shooting. But prosecutors hope that witness testimony will help clarify the events.

Earlier this month, the judge approved a motion filed by Bryant to be tried separately from the other two defendants. Subsequently, according to AllHipHop, the prosecution is making a strange request that could complicate things. Consequently, they’re calling for a joint trial with all the defendants and two separate juries.

Jam Master Jay’s Alleged Killers Facing Prosecution

NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 15: Hip Hop artist Jam Master Jay (Jason William Mizell; 1965 -2002; center in white) of Run DMC and friends pose for a photo at a party for the release of Run DMC’s album “Tougher Than Leather” on September 15, 1988 at the Palladium night club in New York City, New York. (Photo by Catherine McGann/Getty Images)

The move would help potentially streamline examination of the dozens of witnesses who are expected to be called. People attesting to the events on the night of the murder will be called. As will those speaking on comments made by the defendants afterward. It’s all in an attempt to gain clarity on the entire scope of the events.

One of the biggest points of contention in the trial is Bryant’s involvement in the actual killing. There are reportedly witnesses who will testify that he confessed to them after the fact that he was the trigger man. But eye-witness reports from inside the studio claim that it was his two accomplices who actually did the killing. What do you think of the prosecution asking for two juries in the trial of Jam Master Jay’s alleged killers? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Jam Master Jay Murder Suspect Claims To Have Evidence To Prove His Innocence

October 18, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Jay Bryant, one of three suspects in the murder of Jam Master Jay will officially be tried separately. Brooklyn Federal Court Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall made the ruling earlier this month. Bryant claims that if he is tried alongside his co-defendants, Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr., they’ll point the blame at one another, complicating the trial.

“Bryant argues that ‘there is no plausible scenario’ in which his co-defendants do not turn to the third-party witness their claims of innocence,” Hall wrote. “And at argument, Bryant invited the court to ‘read the tea leaves’ on this issue. I have. Upon a searching review of the record, it is clear that at least Jordan has sufficiently telegraphed that he intends to call the third-party witness to whom Bryant made his alleged admission.” Bryant’s attorney, Cesar de Castro, plans to present “three irreconcilable theories” to the jury. Firstly, he will portray Bryant as innocent, secondly, that he acted alone as the shooter, and thirdly, that he was involved but didn’t fire a gun.

Jam Master Jay Performs In London

Jam Master Jay of Run DMC performs on stage at the Respect Festival, Finsbury Park, London, United Kingdom, 2001. (Photo by Martyn Goodacre/Getty Images)

Federal prosecutors’ case focuses on them claiming Bryant already admitted to pulling the trigger, that he was seen entering the studio during the incident, and that he has been linked to the crime scene by DNA evidence. They believe Washington and Jordan wanted revenge for Jam Master Jay cutting them out of a 10-kilo cocaine deal. Further complicating the process, Bryant’s defense claims it was Jordan who fired the fatal shots. Jordan’s legal team conversely plans to call a witness who will implicate Bryant.

Jam Master Jay was shot and killed inside his studio in Jamaica, Queens in 2002. No arrests in the case were made until 2020 when authorities booked Jordan and Washington. During his career, he was best known as the DJ for the iconic group, Run-DMC. Be on the lookout for further updates on the trial on HotNewHipHop.

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YNW Melly Case Takes Unexpected Turn As Lead Prosecutor Is Removed

October 12, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The YNW Melly double murder retrial has taken another unexpected twist. Broward County Circuit Judge John Murphy decided to remove the lead prosecutor from the case. Assistant State Attorney Kristine Bradley, who was set to lead the prosecution, has been disqualified. Bradley took the stand and delivered a critical testimony. She revealed that she overheard Miramar Police Detective Mark Moretti, the chief investigator in the case against Demons, engage in a concerning conversation. Moretti had allegedly asked a Broward County deputy to provide false information. The info was regarding their presence during a search warrant execution outside of Moretti’s jurisdiction last October. Removing Bradley’s status as a potential witness for the defense is ultimately the fair thing to do. As her involvement could compromise her impartiality in the case. This leaves the State Attorney’s Office with a race against time to find a suitable replacement before jury selection begins.

Moreover, this decision ensures the fairness of the proceedings by preventing any perceived bias or conflict of interest. In addition, in the same ruling, Judge Murphy addressed the defense’s attempt to have the State Attorney’s Office entirely removed from the case and even dismissed entirely. However, elected State Attorney Harold Pryor and two of his deputies, who were accused of engaging in a “cover-up,” were found not to be disqualified. Judge Murphy stated that the defense failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their claims. He emphasized that all available information indicated that the prosecutors had instructed their team to be truthful and forthcoming with the court and the defense.

Lead Prosecutor Removed From YNW Melly Case

#YNWMellyTrial2: BREAKING NEWS: @YNWMelly Prosecutor Kristine Bradley has been removed from the YWN Melly Capital Murder Re-Trial following an order granted and signed by Judge Murphy III on Thursday — according to @SunSentinel’s @rolmeda.#ynwmelly #melly #ynwmellytrial pic.twitter.com/cNqXrc3n2y

— Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) October 12, 2023

With the lead prosecutor now removed from the YNW Melly case and the State Attorney’s Office’s continued involvement, the retrial is set to proceed with a new prosecutor. The clock is ticking. The case has captured public attention, and the legal proceedings are sure to be closely watched as they unfold. In addition to this latest update, the jurors for the retrial may remain anonymous. As HNHH previously reported, a motion was filed to protect the jurors identity so that they don’t become subject to harassment or outside influences.

The YNW Melly case revolves around the shooting deaths of two fellow rappers, Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams and Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas. Jamell “YNW Melly” Demons, the accused, has consistently maintained his innocence. And the defense is exploring every avenue to challenge the credibility of key accusers in the trial. Prosecutors have until the end of next week to start jury selection in the retrial.

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FBG Duck Murder Trial Jury Selection Underway

October 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It’s been three years since FBG Duck’s murder in 2020 and the story is still the subject of so much public intrigue. Part of that comes from the continued revelations made by investigations in to the murder both by the public and by the legal system. Just over the weekend Duck’s mother opener up about his passing in an interview where she reflected on the final day they spent together. She also responded to the rumors that King Von had placed a $100k bounty on Duck, which she claims were true and have been proven.

Earlier this week the legal proceedings for his trial began, starting with jury selection. According to AllHipHop around 150 prospective jurors will be thinned down to a group of 12. They’ll oversee the trial of six different alleged gang members who have been charged with the murder of FBG Duck. The six are reportedly members of a rival gang and prosecutors claim that they publicly took credit for the murder afterward. That mirrored something Duck’s mother insinuated in her recent interview. She also explained that her sons killers had been “telling on themselves” publicly.

FBG Duck Murder Trial Underway

Trial underway for Chicago suspects in FBG Duck murder https://t.co/bg4NcPyidK pic.twitter.com/6tLfXz0CYD

— CBS Chicago (@cbschicago) October 11, 2023

Back in August, rumors emerged that Lil Durk may be connected to the FBG Duck case. Allegedly, files from an FBI informant which somehow made the rounds online identified both Durk and his brother as being involved with the case. That would go counter to the narrative Durk has been pushing about it recently. His message has been that the violence needs to be stopped.

Much of the information relating to Duck’s murder has been made public through his mother. She’s talked extensively about who she thinks was involved, most notably King Von. She’s also spoken on how she believes the events unfolded including how Duck’s location was revealed in the first place. What do you think of the newest developments in the murder trial of FBG Duck? Let us know in the comment section below.

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