The murder trial of rapper YNW Melly reached its fourth day with various controversial moments and testimonies. While the trial proceeded, concerns were raised about the defendant’s behavior in the courtroom, including a gesture that offended the victim’s family. And revealing social media posts by witness, Felicia Holmes.
Testimonies from key witnesses, including Felicia Holmes, the mother of Melly’s ex-girlfriend. The trial took an unexpected turn as the judge considered the possibility of a mistrial, which will be discussed when the trial resumes on June 17th.
During the trial, YNW Melly’s behavior in the courtroom drew attention when he appeared to blow a kiss, offending the victim’s family. Journalist Bryson Paul clarified that the gesture was actually a recitation of a prayer that ended with a blown kiss. The victim’s family also spoke out against the presence of celebrities showing support for Melly.
The prosecution and defense presented contrasting arguments regarding the nature of the crime. The defense appears to be shaping the case as a drive-by shooting, while the prosecution argues that the incident was staged, cold-blooded killing.
Key witnesses include Felicia Holmes, the mother of Melly’s ex-girlfriend. Holmes testified that she has a lack of memory regarding the events leading up to the murder in 2018. The prosecution claimed to have heard a phone call between Melly and Holmes’s daughter after the double murder, but Holmes stated she does not remember the phone number. She also admitted to receiving $5,000 from Melly’s manager, Jameson Francois, but denied it being for personal use. Prosecutors appeared to be hinting at the possibility of witness tampering.
Felicia Holmes accused the state of lying about ordering her to court and causing her to lose her nursing job. When presented with an Instagram message allegedly from her, she claimed not to recall it. The judge subsequently denied the use of certain evidence provided by the prosecution, leading to speculations of a weakening case.
The possibility of a mistrial emerged, with Judge Murphy III considering the move under advisement. The decision regarding a mistrial will be discussed on June 20, when the trial resumes.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 15th 2023
YNW Melly May Still Face Death Penalty As Jury Deliberates
YNW Melly seemed to steer clear of death penalty charges, but fate dangles as a possibility. Previously, it appeared that he would avoid such a conviction, but a recent ruling by a judge has opened the door to a potential death sentence.
The judge ruled in favor of the state, stating that a death sentence could be possible if the jury voted 8-4 in favor of the death penalty. This legal development follows the implementation of a law created after the Parkland school shooter, Nikolas Cruz, managed to avoid the death penalty.
Cruz’s heinous act resulted in the loss of 17 lives and the injury of 14 others using an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle.
Regarding YNW Melly’s case, his supporters continue to rally behind him. His mother took to Instagram, stating:
“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. #mellyfree2023.”
YNW Melly’s brother, YNW BSlime, also chimed in on his Instagram story, urging people to refrain from making ignorant comments by voicing, “Stop saying ignorant stuff and just watch ts play out please and thank u.”
YNW Melly’s Gang Affiliation
Since YNW Melly’s arrest in February 2019, he has faced charges of two counts of first-degree murder. The jury has been engaged in a back-and-forth battle, attempting to prove Melly’s alleged gang affiliation through photographs of his tattoos, which could potentially contribute to considering the death penalty.
Updated by Yasmine Duhé on June 6th, 2023
YNW Melly Dodges The Death Penalty
It was been announced that YNW Melly would not get the death penalty for the murder charge in 2019.
YNW Melly avoided being faced with the death penalty for the murder charge he went to jail for in 2019.
Melly’s management team announced the news on his Instagram account:
“Today Melly wins motion to remove death penalty against prosecution”
The news was also shared by his mother, Jamiek, on her Instagram page:
“I’m literally crying real tears you coming home son @ynwmelly”
Prosecutors Seeking Death Penalty
In February, the state of Florida prosecutor’s office advanced their case against rapper YNW Melly, seeking to prove his gang affiliation with photos of his tattoos.
The state announced they were going for the penalty.