YNW Melly Could Still Face Death Penalty Even w/o Unanimous Decision From Jury In Upcoming Double-Homicide Trial Due To New Statute

YNW Melly Could Still Face Death Penalty Even w/o Unanimous Decision From Jury In Upcoming Double-Homicide Trial Due To New Statute

A new Florida law could result in YNW Melly facing the death penalty.

According to reports, jailed rap artist YNW Melly, real name Jamell Demons, could be sentenced to death in his long-delayed murder trial for the alleged killings of his two friends/YNW crew members.

YNW Melly

According to reports, a split vote between the jury could still play a major role in the 24-year-old rapper’s sentencing after a judge agreed with prosecutors’ motion to follow a new statute. Reportedly, the new law states that if the 12 jurors come back with an 8-4 or higher vote on Melly’s case to sentence him to death, the judge will allow it. Prior to the new law, it had to be a unanimous decision.

YNW Melly’s legal team did try to stop the new statute from playing a role in his case, stating,

“Applying the new law on a retroactive basis would be changing the rules after the game has begun, thereby violating (Demons’) right to procedural due process.”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the statute into law on April 20, according to reports.

As previously reported, Melly was arrested and charged in February 2019, for the killings of his two friends, rappers YNW Juvy (Chris Thomas, 20) and YNW Sakchaser (Anthony Williams, 21) on October 26, 2018.

YNW Melly

Subsequently, prosecutors claim Melly attempted to lead police into believing the execution was a drive-by, which eventually led to him being arrested for both murders.

The trial is expected to begin on Wednesday, June 7.

What are your thoughts on YNW Melly possibly facing the death penalty? Comment below and let us know! 

[Sources: 1, 2]