Chocolate MC Faces Legal Turmoil Over Alleged Bounty on El Taiger’s Accused Killer

Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvanis Arismín Sierra Hernández, known as Chocolate MC, is under legal scrutiny following allegations that he publicly offered a $20,000 bounty for the death of Damián Valdéz-Galloso, the man accused of murdering fellow musician El Taiger. Prosecutors assert that Chocolate MC made multiple social media posts, including statements like, “If the police don’t kill you, we will,” directly threatening Valdéz-Galloso’s life.

The controversy intensified after Chocolate MC’s arrest at a Coral Gables hotel, where he was found hiding in a room different from the one he had booked. During his court appearance before Judge Mindy Glazer, the artist displayed a nonchalant and mocking demeanor, downplaying the seriousness of the charges against him. He faces multiple charges, including hotel room burglary, possession of controlled substances (crack), criminal mischief, possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia with intent to use, written threats of murder and bodily harm, illegal use of a communication device, and assault outside the county.

El Taiger, whose real name was José Manuel Carvajal, was found critically injured in the back of a car near Miami’s Jackson Memorial Hospital in October 2024, having suffered a gunshot wound to the head. He later succumbed to his injuries, prompting an outpouring of grief from the Cuban music community. In response, Chocolate MC released a tribute song titled “Desconfianza,” filmed near the hospital where El Taiger was found.

Despite their tumultuous relationship, Chocolate MC publicly mourned El Taiger’s death and criticized those who accused him of exploiting the tragedy for personal gain. He emphasized their reconciliation prior to El Taiger’s passing and expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

The legal proceedings against Chocolate MC are ongoing, with authorities examining the implications of his alleged threats and the potential impact on the investigation into El Taiger’s murder. The case has sparked widespread debate about the responsibilities of public figures and the consequences of inciting violence through social media platforms.