Judge’s ruling puts defense ‘back in the saddle’ on YNW Melly murder case
Defense lawyers in the YNW Melly murder case are getting back to work, at least behind the scenes, though it will still be months before a second jury hears the bloody details.
Broward Circuit Judge John J. Murphy issued a ruling this week allowing background work, such as sworn witness interviews, to continue while key issues are considered by the Fourth District Court of Appeal.
Most criminal cases are put on hold while critical questions are under appeal, and Melly’s case has both sides challenging Murphy’s decisions.
Prosecutors want the appeals court to allow them to introduce a 20-minute documentary produced by Melly, whose real name is Jamell Demons, 25. Defense lawyers are asking the same court to disqualify the Broward State Attorney’s Office from prosecuting the case because two of its employees are likely to end up on the witness stand.
The Fourth District Court of Appeal has yet to hear arguments for any of the issues that are being raised, and it routinely takes weeks or months to issue a decision. Once that happens, the speedy-trial clock resumes and jury selection has to begin within 90 days.
Murphy’s ruling frees defense lawyers who wanted to resume depositions while waiting for the appeals decision.
“We’re back in the saddle again,” said defense lawyer Jamie Benjamin, part of Melly’s legal team.
Melly is accused of gunning down fellow rappers Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas and Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams after a late-night recording session in 2018. His first trial ended in a hung jury in July.
Rafael Olmeda can be reached at rolmeda@sunsentinel.com or 954-356-4457.
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