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YNW Melly Update: Family Of Victims “Disgusted” By Him Grinning During Trial

June 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

YNW Melly’s murder trial for allegedly killing YNW Jury and YNW SakChaser has gotten no shortage of updates since its beginning on Monday (June 12). Moreover, one of the most illuminating pieces of eyewitness reports we’ve gotten concern the Florida rapper’s demeanor throughout. For example, firsthand testimonies in the courtroom claimed that Melly seemingly cried as hospital footage of his alleged victims played during proceedings. However, new reports show a different side to the story. According to court correspondent Bryson “Boom” Paul of the Law & Crime Network, the victims’ families recoiled at the 24-year-old’s attitude.

“Victims family is disgusted by [YNW Melly] displaying a devious grin and brushing his chin,” the journalist wrote. “Family is in disbelief at his new demeanor.” While there is understandably little photographic evidence to accompany many of these statements, there is a livestream available to watch the trial unfold. In addition, you will find no shortage of footage that made its way to sites like Twitter. All that is to say that this is a more publicly available process than many might believe, so each will come to their own conclusions.

YNW Melly Reportedly Grinning In Court To Victims’ Families’ Dismay

#YNWMellyTrial: Victims family is disgusted by @YNWMelly displaying a devious grin and brushing his chin. Family is in disbelief at his new demeanor.#ynwmelly #lawandcrime @LawCrimeNetwork

— Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) June 13, 2023

Regardless, Paul is among many journalists who have provided consistent updates on every moment of the trial. One of the most recent developments has been YNW Melly appearing to pray before trial began on Tuesday (June 13). In addition, he is not the only popular rap figure present in the courtroom. Boosie Badazz showed up in support of Melly, and reporters updated fans on him as well. Fredo Bang’s name also came up from prosecutors, who claim that the alleged killer asked Bang to pick him up after the murder.

Meanwhile, the defense argued that another suspect already admitted to the double murder via Instagram. Also on Instagram, the Gifford, Florida native asked fans to pray for him and watch the trial’s livestream. Under new Florida state law enacted by Ron DeSantis, it might be easier for Melly to face the death penalty. As such, many are concerned for his life regardless of guilt, as he is the first on trial subject to these new changes. But to have the victims’ family witness these good spirits must not be easy. For the latest news and updates on YNW Melly and his trial, stick around on HNHH.

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Tory Lanez Receives New Sentencing Date

June 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge David Herriford has scheduled a new sentencing date for Tory Lanez, regarding his three felony charges in the 2020 shooting of Megan Thee Stallion. Lanez will now find out how long he can expect to spend in prison on Monday, August 7, 2023.

“Judge Herriford scheduled it moments ago,” Legal affairs journalist Meghann Cuniff reported on Twitter, Tuesday. “Lanez appeared in court briefly, wearing orange jail garb and a black cap. His lawyers’ sentencing recommendation is due Aug. 1. Prosecutors want 13 years.”

Tory Lanez In Concert

AUSTIN, TEXAS – JUNE 23: Tory Lanez performs in concert during the Future Hndrxx tour at Austin360 Amphitheater on June 23, 2017 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images)

As for what Lanez can expect from his sentencing, the charges carry a maximum sentence of 22 years and eight months in prison. However, prosecutors in Los Angeles are recommending the rapper serve 13 years behind bars. They made the determination in a memorandum filed in court, last Tuesday.

“Words have power and the pen is oftentimes mightier than the sword. In this case, Daystar Peterson used both,” the filing read, referring to Lanez’s legal name. “Not content to have hurt the victim by use of his sword (gun), he also used his pen. His online posts for nearly three years have re-traumatized the victim.”

“His online reach is worldwide (millions of followers plus casual observers) and the defendant’s statements embolden his followers so that they too have been complicit in re-traumatizing the victim,” the memo continues. “He is responsible for the effect of his words and his actions.”

Tory Lanez’s New Sentencing Date

Tory Lanez’s new sentencing date is August 7.

Judge Herriford scheduled it moments ago. Lanez appeared in court briefly, wearing orange jail garb and a black cap. His lawyers’ sentencing recommendation is due Aug. 1. Prosecutors want 13 years. https://t.co/m4LmJQidah

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) June 13, 2023

A jury found Lanez guilty on three felony counts in regard to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion back in December. Prosecutors have argued he “demonstrated a high level of callousness” with the shooting as well as his behavior afterward and the court should punish him accordingly. Keep an eye out for more updates on Tory Lanez’s case in the coming months.

[Via]

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Prosecutors Allege Fredo Bang Picked Up YNW Melly After Murders Of YNW Juvy & YNW SakChaser

June 12, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Broward County Prosecutor Kristine Bradley claimed that Fredo Bang (Fredrick Givens) picked up YNW Melly after he murdered YNW Juvy and YNW SakChaser. In addressing the court on Monday during the first day of Melly’s double murder trial, Bradley explained that Melly sent Bang a pin of his location.

“What you’re also going to find out, is that while Mr. Demons (Melly) is out there on the side of the road at four in the morning, 4:42 specifically, he sends a drop pin– a digital homing beacon to his current location, to one of his friends, Fredrick Givens,” Bradley began.

The Prosecution Brings Up Fredo Bang

Prosecutors says Fredo Bang picked up YNW Melly after the murder of YNW Juvy and YNW SakChaser pic.twitter.com/K2NjF2HVyx

— No Jumper (@nojumper) June 12, 2023

She continued: “Fredrick Givens is also involved in the music industry. And he [Melly] asked to be picked up. Fredrick Givens then, about 11 minutes later, is sent another drop pin where Mr. Demons has moved a couple of meters. What you’re going to find out as well though, is these digital leashes they have more than just phone calls…” Check out her full remarks on Fredo Bang above.

In Melly’s defense, his attorney, David A. Howard, argued on Monday that neither the police nor the prosecution has been able to produce a realistic motive for the rapper killing his “best friends.” “Do you know what does require motive?” he asked rhetorically. “A young man to wake up one day and decide that he’s going to kill two of his best friends – best friends that he grew up with; best friends that he hangs out with; best friends who he lives with; best friends whose careers he was trying to launch alongside his own. They have no reason for why he would do this because there is no reason. And if there’s no reason, it doesn’t make sense.” He also cited an Instagram user who posted about committing the murders afterward. Keep an eye out for more updates regarding YNW Melly’s double murder trial as the week continues.

[Via]

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YNW Melly’s Team Argues An IG User Admitted To Murders Of YNW Juvy & YNW SakChaser

June 12, 2023 by newhiphopnews

YNW Melly’s legal team argued that a man named, Robert Cobert, admitted to the killings of YNW Juvy and YNW SakChaser on Instagram after their deaths during the first day of the rapper’s trial on Monday. Defense attorney David A. Howard said that Cobert’s only defense was that he sold the IG account for $20 and doesn’t remember to whom.

Howard claims that the Instagram account in question posted the message, “Lol we killed two of your (friends).” He then argued that it took seven months before authorities questioned Cobert because they already had their minds made up on Melly.

YNW Melly’s Double Murder Trial

As for the defense’s opening statement, Howard admitted that determining a motive isn’t necessary to convict Melly based on Florida law. However, he suggested the jury consider it when assessing whether his client would kill two men he considered “best friends.”

“Do you know what does require motive?” Howard said in court. “A young man to wake up one day and decide that he’s going to kill two of his best friends – best friends that he grew up with; best friends that he hangs out with; best friends who he lives with; best friends whose careers he was trying to launch alongside his own. They have no reason for why he would do this because there is no reason. And if there’s no reason, it doesn’t make sense.”

YNW Melly’s Defense In Court

UPDATE: Robert Cobert created an IG account from which a post was sent out taunting YNW Melly’s friends deaths, “Lol we killed two of your (friends)”. When Robert was interviewed, he claims he didn’t write that but he indeed sold the account for $20, and doesn’t recall who he… pic.twitter.com/YA4Cbgn4uU

— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) June 12, 2023

He further mocked the police and prosecutors by saying, “And, if after four years of investigation, the state comes and says, ‘Hey, he killed two of his best friends.’ And you’re wondering why, and their answer is, ‘Uh, I dunno.’ That’s the first indication that they’re just guessing and don’t know what they’re talking about. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is, by itself, reasonable doubt.” Be on the lookout for more updates regarding YNW Melly’s double murder trial as the week continues.

[Via]

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Soulja Boy Requests Retrial In Alleged Assault Case

June 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Soulja Boy is accusing a jury of misconduct in the assault and kidnapping case brought by his ex-girlfriend, Kayla Myers. Myers filed the civil suit in 2020, alleging that the rapper assaulted her and kidnapped her at his Malibu home for six hours. Despite authorities not criminally charging Soulja, a jury in the civil trial ordered Soulja to pay Myers $235,000 after ruling in her favor. During the trial, Myers showed the jury photos of her alleged injuries, including three fractured ribs, as well as messages from Soulja Boy.

In Soulja’s new motion, his legal team claims there was “irregularity in the proceedings of the court, jury or adverse party, or any order of the court or abuse of discretion by which either party was prevented from having a fair trial.” He also reportedly has discovered new evidence that he wants to present in court.

Soulja Boy Performs At Rolling Loud

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 03: Soulja Boy performs during 2023 Rolling Loud Los Angeles at Hollywood Park Grounds on March 03, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Timothy Norris/WireImage)

A main factor in Soulja’s decision to request a retrial reportedly stems from a further award of $236,000 in “punitive damages” the jury gave Myers. The figure brought Myers’ total closer to $500,000. At the time, her attorney, Max Engelhardt, told RadarOnline.com: “We’re pleased with the jury’s verdict for $472,000. Mr. Way [Soulja Boy] assaulted and terrorized Kayla, and that was borne out by the evidence and testimony. The punitive damages were substantial, and hopefully they will serve as a lesson to Mr. Way that his celebrity status is not a license to commit violence.”

Paying off the damages shouldn’t be too difficult for Soulja, who recently showed off the massive earnings he made from his hit single, “Kiss Me Thru The Phone.” During an interview with HipHopDX, Soulja claimed he was making $100,000 a month at one point from the track. He explained that the figure was so high due to a phone number featured in the music video. Each time fans dialed the number, he made money.

[Via]

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Tay-K Shares New Message To Fans Through Discord

June 8, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Very few rappers went from stars to behind bars as quickly as Tay-K. That hasn’t stopped him from working on new music though. According to a new message he sent to fans via a Discord server he has some new material. The message saw Tay-K telling fans he hopes that they’re ready for what he’s been working on. Even before the new Discord serves Tay-K was finding ways to communicate with his fans from jail.

Back in March he shared a letter to fans on his Instagram account. In the letter he reflected on his own journey and how he’s influenced others to live better lives. The letter received a pretty positive response from fans who continue to prop up the #FreeTayK movement. Tay-K appreciated the response and let fans know with a Tweet about a month later. In the Tweet, he expressed love for fans that are continuing to fight for his release. He also acknowledged that there’s a lot of misinformation about him in the world and insisted that the truth will eventually come out.

Tay-K Talks To Fans Once Again

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by No Jumper (@nojumper)

Tay-K’s biggest hit “The Race” reached the top 50 on the Hot 100 and was eventually certified platinum. Unfortunately, legal issues have been following him since before the song was even released. He was already on the run from U.S. Marshalls on the day the song was released in 2017. In fact, before the song was ever recorded he was already wanted for participating in the murder of Ethan Walker. He was put on trial for that murder in 2019 which is what ultimately led to his incarceration. While he was found not guilty of capital murder, he ended up pleading guilty to lesser charges that resulted in a sentencing of 55 years to life.

The rapper still has other ongoing legal issues moving in parallel with his current incarceration. Despite his current situation Tay-K continues to fight for his innocence both through the court system and in public opinion. What do you think about Tay-K’s message to fans and his potential upcoming new music? Tell us in the comment section below.

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YNW Melly’s Jury Selection Continues As Murder Trial Looms

June 6, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Jury selection for the upcoming murder trial of YNW Melly has begun in Florida. The rapper faces the death penalty after being booked for two counts of first-degree murder in February 2019. After the jury is finalized, opening statements will begin shortly afterward.

Experts expect the selection process to be lengthy as Melly faces the death penalty if convicted. Broward Circuit Judge John Murphy recently sided with the state prosecutors’ motion to follow a new statute in the state that allows juries to recommend a death sentence with an 8-4 vote. In the past, jurors had to be unanimous on the decision.

YNW Melly’s Booking Photo

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)

In the four years since Melly’s initial arrest, he and his mother have provided updates on his case on social media. Earlier this year, his mom shared a heartfelt letter he penned from behind bars. “Hey ma, damn y’all made my night my whole month,” Melly wrote with hearts. “So glad I seen y’all. I hope y’all seen me. I know y’all did right when you went screamin ‘I SEE HIM’ they made you leave. [annoyed face] I’m so glad I seen you ma! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Tell Grandma & Silas I love them and appreciate them so much. It was good to see them as well.”

His mom added in the caption of the post: “I will always be here to make your darkest nights bright even if I have to bring the light to you son. I love you @ynwmelly so much my 1st born.” Be on the lookout for updates on Melly’s case in the coming weeks.

[Via]

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Tory Lanez Attempts To Disqualify Judge Over Favoritism

June 6, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Tory Lanez and his legal team, comprised of lawyers Matthew Barhoma and Jose Baez, have filed a motion to disqualify Judge David Herriford. They claim the Los Angeles County Superior Court judge has shown favoritism to the prosecution. In addition to presiding over Lanez’s two-week trial in December, he also rejected the rapper’s motion for a new trial.

“Conversely, the judge gave the People a full and fair opportunity to present argument uninterrupted, even when the case cited by the People did not stand for the proposition that they advanced,” the defense attorneys wrote in their filing.

Tory Lanez In Concert

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 04: Tory Lanez performs at Bridgestone Arena on September 04, 2019, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

They continued: “Together, these facts reveal such a high degree of favoritism or antagonism as to make fair judgment impossible. Given these facts, a reasonable person would fairly entertain doubts concerning the judge’s impartiality. As a result, disqualification is required.”

Herriford previously dismissed accusations of favoritism in a written order at the time Lanez filed a motion for a new trial.“I am not prejudiced or biased against or in favor of any party to this proceeding or their counsel,” he wrote at the time. “All rulings made by me in this action have been based upon facts and arguments officially presented to me and upon my understanding of the law. … All statements made by me and all actions taken by me in this proceeding have been done in furtherance of what I believe were my judicial duties.”

A jury found Lanez guilty on three felony counts in regard to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion in December. He faces a maximum of 22 years and eight months in prison. Prosecutors have been open about wanting a harsh sentence for Lanez. They argue he “demonstrated a high level of callousness” with the shooting and the court should punish him accordingly. His sentencing will go down on June 13.

[Via]

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Megan Thee Stallion Requests Kelsey Harris’ Texts Mentioning Her Name Ahead Of 1501 Trial

June 2, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It’s only been half a year since Megan Thee Stallion came out victorious in her Tory Lanez shooting trial. With another Hot Girl Summer looming, she’s now preparing to head back to court. This time Megan will be facing off against Carl Crawford, the head of her former label. According to documents recently obtained by Radar Online, the rap diva’s attorneys have filed a deposition demanding a motion to compel against her ex-BFF, Kelsey Harris. More specifically, they’re hoping to obtain texts exchanged between her and Lanez or Crawford using Megan’s name.

The motion was filed on Wednesday (May 31) and additionally asks that Kelsey answer questions under oath on videotape. On top of that, Thee Stallion wants answers as to whether the 1501 Certified Entertainment head approved her former friend’s “Bussin Back” diss track. As you may recall, the song was previously introduced as evidence in the aforementioned shooting trial.

Megan Thee Stallion is Ready to Face Her Ex-BFF in Court Again

Megan Thee Stallion attends the 2022 Billboard Music Awards on May 15, 2022. (Photo by Maria Alejandra CARDONA / AFP) (Photo by MARIA ALEJANDRA CARDONA/AFP via Getty Images)

According to HipHopDX, it’s unclear at this time if 1501 has filed a motion to quash the request. Earlier in the month, Thee Stallion’s legal team also submitted a motion to depose Darien Smith – an executive label who is currently dating Harris. The reason he’s been named is due to his alleged “first-hand knowledge” of the situation.

On top of the trauma she’s endured, the Houston hottie is apparently also having a hard time getting 1501 to comply with her “in good faith to schedule these depositions.” As of now, the trial is scheduled to begin on August 7, leaving both sides just a few months to get their affairs in order. Do you think Megan Thee Stallion will come out on top in her fight against Carl Crawford’s 1501 Certified Entertainment? Let us know in the comments, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

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Nicki Minaj‘s Husband’s Sexual Assault Case Stalls In Settlement Negotiations

May 29, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Nicki Minaj‘s husband, Kenneth Petty, is reportedly refusing a judge’s order to settle the sexual assault case brought forth against him by Jennifer Hough. The victim is now seeking legal help to put pressure on Petty to move forward. HipHopDX obtained court documents on Monday that show Hough’s attorney, Tyrone Blackburn, has demanded a scheduling order. He claims Petty is refusing to cooperate on settlement negotiations.

“We are counsel to Plaintiff Jennifer Hough in the above-referenced matter. I write jointly with counsel for Defendant Kenneth Petty,” Blackburn wrote in his letter to Judge Cho as noted by HipHopDX. “As you know, the Court provided the parties with an opportunity to engage in private mediation. The parties participated in private mediation, but unfortunately, we were unable to reach a settlement. We would like to have a scheduling conference with the court to set a scheduling order.”

Nick Minaj With Kenneth Petty

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 12: Nicki Minaj and Kenneth Petty attend the Marc. Jacobs Fall 2020 runway show during New York Fashion Week on February 12, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Marc Jacobs)

Hough alleges that Petty harassed her in an attempt to convince her to recant to avoid the National Sex Offender Registry. Hough says Petty offered her $500,000 to drop the case and that Minaj hired private investigators to harass her and her daughter. However, she’s since dropped her case against Minaj. As Petty continues to not make progress toward a settlement, the possibility of the case going to trial becomes more and more likely. The judge ordered him to reach a settlement with Hough back in December.

Petty was previously convicted of first-degree attempted rape in 1995. For the conviction, he served over four years in prison. Almost two decades later, he still had not registered as sex a offender, resulting in a judge sentencing him to one year of home confinement and three years of probation.

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