trial

YNW Melly’s Trial Begins Jury Selection

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YNW Melly’s ongoing case regarding double-murder charges has officially begun jury selection and has a trial date set for June 5, 2023, according to his mother, Jamie King. King shared the news on her Instagram page, Monday night.

“Official update on @ynwmelly we started jury selection today and will continue over the next 2 weeks. Trial will start June 5, 2023 no more delays,” the post reads. “#mellyfree2023.” In the caption, King adds, “Melly coming home. Today I went to court expecting more delays but we started jury selection. I can’t explain how I feel my anxiety is everywhere but God got us. #mellyfree2023 @_ynwbslime got see his brother on his birthday first time in 4yrs.” One fan wrote in response to the post, “We miss u Melly.” Another remarked, “I’ve been waiting since 8th grade.”

Jamie King’s Update

Melly later confirmed the news in a post on his own Instagram page, calling on his fans to come support him in court. “I Got court Today for all my supporters that want to come show support this been a long journey,” he wrote. “God is on my side.”

YNW Melly’s mother has been sharing numerous updates on her son since he was imprisoned in 2019. Earlier this year, King posted a handwritten letter from the rapper. “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.”

Melly was originally arrested in Miramar, Florida for the October 2018 double murder of YNW Sakchaser and YNW Juvy. He’s been in prison in the years since while awaiting trial for the alleged incident. Last year, he released a statement complaining about the harsh conditions he’s subject to behind bars. At that time, he claimed to be dealing with threats and abuse by jail staff. He added that he’s the only inmate with “no phone privilege, no television, and no access to a newspaper.”

YNW Melly’s Message For His Fans

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Young Thug Case: Potential Juror Jailed For Recording Trial

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The latest update in the Young Thug case, where several other YSL members face RICO charges, concerns the seemingly unending jury selection process. Moreover, it’s been months of consistent delays and lengthy court proceedings to pick the case’s jury. Of course, it’s quite the complicated and high-profile indictment, so it’s understandable while still being frustrating. However, given all the leaked information that emerged surrounding this case, Judge Glanville tried very hard to keep things within the courtroom. As such, he sentenced a potential juror to three days in jail for recording part of the trial proceedings.

Although it’s unclear whether the recording in question actually came out, such actions could greatly affect the process. For example, leak of an interrogation of a YSL affiliate put said member in danger, caused a wave of speculation online, and made a codefendant seek mistrial. Despite probes into these leaks, it’s hard to identify who is putting out what on the Internet and social media. Not only that, but Judge Glanville specifically told all potential jurors that they couldn’t record anything in these proceedings.

Young Thug Trial Recording Gets Potential Juror Jailed

Furthermore, the juror candidate in question faced accusations of live-streaming court proceedings on March 17. Reportedly, she claimed that she took a quick video and then promptly deleted it after a fellow potential juror told her she’s not supposed to do that. Moreover, she says that deputies confiscated her phone and found the vid in the “recently deleted” folder. She further explained that it was her first time being called as a juror. Thus, she didn’t know what was allowed and what wasn’t. However, Glanville pushed back on this, as he maintained that he made guidelines very clear.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the court summoned around 1,200 potential jurors for this case. Still, not one has been selected as of yet. Given this and other curious developments in the case, this process will likely take weeks or months to complete. In the meantime, fans hold out hope that this case can at least get going as fast as possible. With that in mind, stick around on HNHH for the latest on the YSL trial and Young Thug.

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Leonardo DiCaprio Testifies Against Pras Michel

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In one of the strangest media crossover events so far this year, Leonardo DiCaprio testified against Pras Michel in the latter’s ongoing conspiracy trial. Moreover, the former Fugees member stands accused of collaborating with Malaysian businessman Jho Low to illegally finance Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign, embezzle billions from the Malaysian government, and more. During his testimony, the silver screen star went over his relationship with Low in interesting detail. While Pras pleaded not guilty to all charges against him, Leo is not criminally involved in this case.

Instead, prosecutors likely used him as an example of Low coercing influential people in the States and seeking favor with them for his own personal gain. Before anyone starts speculating, DiCaprio’s testimony does not incriminate him or his collaborators in any way. In the hour-long testimony, the Inception actor said he became friends with Low upon meeting at a birthday party in 2010. Two years later, Low allegedly told him about his plan to donate between $20 million and $30 million to the Democratic Party throughout the 2012 presidential election.

Leonardo DiCaprio & Pras Michel On Opposite Sides Of Courtroom

Not only that, but prosecutors maintain that Low used a film production company called Red Granite Pictures to launder his embezzled money. Furthermore, this relates to Leo because, apparently, they offered to finance his flick The Wolf Of Wall Street. Before accepting, the actor’s legal team and third party collaborators ran financial background checks on the production company. Surprisingly (and clearly incorrectly), everything seemed normal. What’s more is that the 48-year-old even thanked Low during his Golden Globes acceptance speech for Best Actor for his role in the film.

Meanwhile, Leo said that he met Pras once or twice. The first time was during a Fugees concert in the ’90s, whereas he hazily remembered interacting with him on another occasion at DiCaprio’s house for Thanksgiving dinner. Funnily enough, the actor recently hung out with Q-Tip courtside at a basketball game, so his hip-hop roots run deep. Regardless, the rapper stands accused of making illegal campaign contributions with Low in 2012, failing to register as an agent of China’s government, and witness tampering. With all that in mind, log back into HNHH for the latest on Leonardo DiCaprio and Pras Michel.

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Pras Michel Conspiracy Trial Begins

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The trial involving Pras Michel began on Monday (March 27) in Washington D.C., more specifically its jury selection. Moreover, according to an NPR report, the Fugees member faces various charges such conspiracy, witness tampering, and failing to register as an agent of China. For those unaware, an investigation into potential embezzlement of millions to help Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign found Pras at the center around December of 2018. Since then, he faced other legal woes for failing to pay child support, but a broader federal case is now underway.

Furthermore, his legal troubles actually caused the cancellation of the Fugees’ reunion tour back in August of 2022. To elaborate on the charges, apparently the New Jersey native schemed to reimburse attendees of an Obama campaign fundraiser for $40,000 using foreign investment for ticket costs. In addition, authorities accused him of threatening those who would report such a plot to officials. Not only that, but he also allegedly helped Malaysian billionaire Jho Low through a secret lobbying campaign. This was to pressure U.S. justice and White House officials into dismissing the existing fraud scheme.

Pras Michel’s Trial For Conspiracy Begins Jury Selection Process

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 13: Pras is seen on December 13, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by SMXRF/Star Max/GC Images)

Also, the court accused him of aiding the Chinese government “secure the return” of a dissident residing in the States and developing close ties to Steve Bannon and the Trump administration. Since Low is reportedly living in China as a fugitive, the 50-year-old MC faces these charges alone. According to his legal team, Pras acted in good faith and in the interests of the U.S. when meeting with a Chinese minister in 2017. While federal authorities reportedly offered Pras a plea deal, he then rejected it and went on to plead not guilty to these crimes.

“Defendant continues to deny he was acting as an agent for China and denies he willfully and knowingly acted as a secret agent under the direction and control of China when he approached the FBI,” defense lawyers stated this month in court documents. Meanwhile, if convicted on all charges, Michel could land in prison for 22 years. For the latest updates on Pras and his legal case, check back in with HNHH.

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Lil Mosey Celebrates His Freedom With New Single, “Flu Game”

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After being acquitted of his recent rape charges, Lil Mosey is gracing the scene with more music. With his newfound freedom, the Washington-born entertainer is gearing himself back up for a major return by dropping his newest single, “Flu Game.” Not only is Mosey dodging a prison sentence, but he now gets a chance to redeem his honor in the public eye. The clearing of all charges on March 2nd allowed him to feel confident in dropping his latest track on March 17th.

The highly anticipated song was paired with the release of a music video. In it, Lil Mosey dons a stylish outfit akin to the one Micheal Jordan in his famous 1997 final’s game. The young artist draws lyrical parallels between his struggles with proving his innocence and Jordan’s poor health at the time. Through his heartfelt lyrics, Mosey sings, “Tryna ball like Michael Jordan (Jordan)/ Look at my left wrist, it’s gorgeous (Gorgeous)/ Livin’ the life that I wanted (Wanted)/ .”

Lil Mosey Draws Parallels Between His & Michael Jordan’s Struggles

Throughout his verses, Lil Mosey reflects on the feeling of being trapped in his situation. “They love watchin’ you fall/ And they gon’ try to knock you,” he laments. “When you’re back against the wall (Against the wall).” The verse perfectly encapsulates the feeling of not being able to win. But the track also reflects his feelings of rising above the darkness. He makes a not-so-subtle hint in his last verse, “Winnin’ any case a good feeling.” New listeners might overlook the lyric at first. However, fans of Mosey are definitely going to spot the reference right away.

Lil Mosey teams up with producers SephGotTheWaves, Geo Vocals, and ISM to ensure the song’s excellence. As he spent the last couple of years struggling through a storm, he wanted the best team possible. In his latest Instagram post, he captions a snippet of the video with, “This for my fans, this for the culture!” While he was facing prosecution, Mosey’s biggest fans consistently voiced their support. The artist returns the favor in the best way he can, by continuing to put out great music. Stay tuned to learn more about his upcoming music.

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Young Thug Court Photo Surfaces Following Metro Boomin’s Update

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After a photo of Young Thug flexing behind bars appeared online, another image of the rapper surfaced. Thugger has been at legal war with prosecutors claiming he is a street gang leader. He was arrested last May in connection to the RICO case against YSL, as authorities claim the record label is a criminal organization. Thug’s supporters have insisted he is a respectable figure who has helped other creatives succeed. However, he faced several charges connected to drugs, weapons, and racketeering.

The jury selection process has been daunting. It has continued for months; according to reports, there isn’t an end in sight for some time. It could be the summer, if not even later this year, before the trial begins. Several of Young Thug’s alleged associates have already taken plea deals, including Gunna. He was the first to cop to an Alford plea, and in court, he made admissions that had many labeling him as a snitch.

Young Thug’s Sister Gave An Update

According to Thug’s sister Dolly White, the Trap artist is doing well, all things considered. She also said he told her he would be home soon, although there are some who aren’t so enthusiastic. Additionally, there have been several conversations about Thug’s relationship with Gunna. The latter has kept a low profile since leaving jail in December, and his peers speculated about Gunna’s next move.

Some theorize that to move forward with his Rap career, Young Thug must speak up on behalf of Gunna. Recently, DJ Akademiks hopped on Twitch to speculate about the “Pushin P” rapper’s future. He claimed Gunna already had an album ready for release but is questioning whether he should stay with YSL or move to another label. The validity of those rumors is questionable, but the gossip spread like wildfire.

Metro Boomin Talked To Thugger

Days ago, Metro Boomin revealed he’s spoken with Young Thug while on DJ Drama’s The Streetz Iz Watching podcast. “I be talking to him, he’s blessed man,” Metro said. “Anybody know Slime know he got a heart of gold, but he got the heart of a warrior at the same time. So, like, he got his head up. And I pray for him every single day, even since everything first happened. I pray for him every single day.”

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Troy Ave Testifies At Taxstone’s Murder Trial

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Troy Ave took the stand at Taxstone’s murder trial for the killing of his bodyguard, Ronald “Banga” McPhatter, on Monday. Troy reportedly told the jury he and McPhatter were in the VIP section of Irving Plaza when they ran into Taxstone, with whom they had a longstanding feud. He explained that tensions were high as they introduced themselves.

“Banga turns around to me and says, ‘I’m gonna rock him,’ which means, ‘I’m gonna hit him,’” Troy Ave testified. “And then I wink at him—I tell him, ‘Do your thing.’” From there, Troy explained that Tax pulled out a gun and shot McPhatter. Troy then wrestled for the gun with Tax, which resulted in him being shot in the legs.

Troy Ave Performing In 2015

NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 17: Troy Ave performs onstage as Coors Light Soundtrack reFRESH brings DJ Mustard, Fabolous and special guests To NYC at Stage 48 on November 17, 2015 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Coors Light)

“When the shot goes off I see the light from the spark and I hear the shot,” he testified. “This is all happening fast. I get up and start fighting Taxstone, trying to take him, grab the gun, and another shot goes off. I put my leg up to kind of block the shot from hitting me in the face or chest. I got up. I’d rather die fighting. People die from leg shots. I’d rather die fighting than laying on the ground. I got up immediately.”

Before taking the stand, Troy shared a photo of Jay-Z testifying in a 2021 lawsuit on Instagram. He captioned the picture: “To all my real ones that been riding with & for Me, today is the day I finally get to clear my name. 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! I took it all on the chin, never complained about the stress even tho I felt it. Never complained about the pain even tho it hurt! Never shed a tear even tho my heart was crying! At my weakest points I drew strength from GOD! drew strength from my Children & drew strength from Yall but today.”

Troy Ave’s Instagram Post

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Hurricane Chris Victim Gets Compared To Deebo From “Friday” In Court

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Grammy-nominated rapper Hurricane Chris is now on trial for a shooting that occurred in June 2020. He’s facing murder charges after shooting Danzeria O. Ferris Jr. in Louisiana. The incident took place on June 19th when Hurricane, whose real name is Christopher Dooley, claimed to have caught Ferris trying to steal his car outside of a gas station. Due to the misunderstanding, the musician shot Danzeria, which quickly proved to be fatal.

After the shooting, officers arrived at the scene to find Danzeria with several gunshot wounds. The man later passed away in the hospital. It is reported that Ferris Jr. had his final moments at the Texaco on Hollywood Avenue. Now, Hurricane’s trial is officially beginning three years later. Despite the fact that he was driving a stolen car, he is confident in his innocence. In a weird turn of events, the rapper’s lawyer compared the victim to a Friday character, Deebo. Not only did the lawyer make the comparison verbally, but they also showed a photo of the actor to the jury.

Hurricane Chris Lawyer Compares Victim To Movie Character

After the shooting on June 19th, Hurricane Chris is now being charged with second-degree murder. He is also being charged with possession of a stolen vehicle. Interestingly enough, this is the same vehicle that the artist believes was stolen by the now-deceased victim. After the artist’s attorney made his comparison, 911 phone calls were played for the jury. The audio was reportedly so distressing that a woman left the courtroom.

Hurricane is currently pleading not guilty. His defense team is claiming self-defense as the cause of the incident. Despite how confident he is about his innocence, many people are not buying his excuse. Especially given the apparent low blow made by his attorney comparing the dead victim to a movie character. The fact that Chris was driving a stolen car has also caused some people to raise their eyebrows. The trial started recently on March 8th. While the trial is still in its early stage of development, many people believe that the case is a pretty open-and-shut one. Check back later for any updates on the trial.

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Prosecutor Labels XXXTentacion’s Alleged Killers “Predators”

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Florida prosecutor Pascale Achille called the alleged killers of XXXTentacion “predators” during closing arguments to the jury on Tuesday. In doing so, she played cellphone videos that showed the defendants smiling and dancing just hours after the murder as they flashed $100 bills for the camera. The three men are co-defendants Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome. They are all charged with first-degree murder and face mandatory life sentences if convicted.

“This is who they are. This is their real character. Killers that within 24 hours after shooting the victim dead and stealing $50,000 from him, this is what they do,” Achille told the jury as she played the video. “Look at how happy they look. Look at how excited they look.”

XXXTentacion Tribute In L.A.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 15: A view of a tribute to slain rapper XXXtentacion during day 2 of Rolling Loud Festival at Banc of California Stadium on December 15, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

In the trial, Boatwright, 28, is accused of being the shooter, while Newsome, 24, is accused of being a separate gunman. Williams, 26, is accused of being the driver for the crime. A fourth suspect, Robert Allen, 26, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, last year, and testified against the three men.

One of the strategies defense attorneys tried to use was to pin the killing on Drake. Attorney Mauricio Padilla cited an Instagram post from XXXTentacion in which he claimed, “If anyone tries to kill me it was @champagnepapi [Drake]. I’m snitching RN.” X later quickly deleted the post and retracted the statement, claiming his account had been hacked. “Before X died, he said, ‘If anybody kills me, it’s Drake.’ Do you think sitting here years later, any detective has ever asked Drake or anybody like that? No,” Padilla argued, according to Complex. “This is one of the biggest celebrities in the world. Excluding an order from this court, we all know that I will never be able to take his deposition.” Attorneys eventually got a deposition scheduled for Drake on February 24, but the Toronto rapper ended up being able to get out of it.

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Witness In YSL Case Believed To Be In Danger After Interrogation Leaks Online

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Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis says that she’s concerned for a witness’ safety after footage of their interrogation for the YSL trial leaked online. The video shows an unidentified man speaking with authorities for the case against Young Thug. It has over 30 million views online. Willis says that she’s unsure how the video got out, but that the prosecution has possessed it for over a year. They only handed over to the defense two months ago.

“It puts people’s lives in danger,” Willis told WSB-TV‘s Mark Winne. “My worst fear is that it is used as an intimidating tactic and people might be hurt.” Willis noted a large number of comments on a YouTube post of the video that threaten the man’s life. In the viral video, the man appears to tell investigators, “This is a murder that’s about to take place with some very hot people, and [inaudible] the stuff that I know right now should be able to help me get out my situation.” Defense Attorney Keith Adams addressed the leak saying, “I’m happy to have them make a determination or find out where it came from. I know it didn’t come from us!”

Young Thug Prior To His Arrest

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 12: Hip-hop artist Young Thug arrives at a release party for his new album “PUNK” at Delilah on October 12, 2021 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Tullberg/Getty Images)

Willis has since filed a motion that would mandate that defense attorneys can only view similar videos in her office and cannot record them. In response, Adams said: “You don’t just file a motion and make these allegations when you’ve got absolutely no basis to back that up, and that’s what’s happened in this case.” Adams says not allowing him to make copies would be unconstitutional as it would limit their access to evidence that could help them defend their clients. He added that he doesn’t believe a defense attorney leaked the video.

The YSL trial is still many months off from kicking off. Through May, more than 1,200 jurors will appear in court to watch a pre-recorded reading of the indictment for the YSL case. They will also be hearing the preliminary jury instructions, filling out a questionnaire, and more.

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