YNW Melly again seeks bond ahead of double murder re-trial in Broward

​In a recent development, rapper YNW Melly, born Jamell Demons, is once again seeking release on bond as he awaits retrial for double murder charges in Broward County, Florida. This request comes after his initial trial concluded in July 2023 with a hung jury, voting 9-3 for conviction. Melly has been in custody since his arrest in February 2019, marking over four years behind bars without a definitive verdict.​

The retrial, initially scheduled for January 2024, was postponed to February 5, 2024, after Broward Circuit Judge John Murphy granted prosecutors additional preparation time. Jury selection commenced in October 2023 and was expected to continue through December 2023. The delay was partly due to the removal of lead prosecutor Kristine Bradley at the defense’s request, following claims that the lead detective in the case had been accused of gathering evidence improperly. Judge Murphy, while not finding Bradley’s integrity compromised, agreed to her recusal to ensure a fair trial. ​

In October 2023, prosecutors charged Melly with witness tampering, alleging that he coordinated with members of the Bloods street gang to prevent a key witness from testifying during his first trial. These accusations include using phone calls made by other jail inmates at his request to relay messages. Defense attorney Jamie Benjamin contends that these charges are retaliatory, following allegations that the Broward County State Attorney’s Office concealed evidence related to the lead detective’s conduct. ​

Melly faces charges for the 2018 murders of two childhood friends and fellow YNW collective members, Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas and Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams. Prosecutors allege that after a late-night recording session, Melly shot Thomas and Williams inside an SUV and, with the assistance of Cortlen “YNW Bortlen” Henry, attempted to stage the scene as a drive-by shooting. If convicted of first-degree murder, Melly could face the death penalty. ​

As the retrial approaches, Melly’s legal team continues to challenge the prosecution’s conduct and seeks his release on bond, emphasizing the extended duration of his pre-trial detention. The court’s decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the course of this high-profile case.