After nearly a week of deliberation, the verdict emerged in the XXXTENTACION murder trial. The three men who stood trial, Michael Boatwright, Trayvon Newsome, and Dedrick Williams, were found guilty on all counts. The jury convicted the three men of armed robbery and first-degree murder charges for killing XXXTENTACION in 2018. The first-degree murder charge itself carries a penalty of life in prison. However, Michael Boatwright, Trayvon Newsome, and Dedrick Williams will find out their sentence next month when they return to court.
The defense did not provide any details surrounding their post-conviction plans after the trial concluded. However, fans noticed a suspicious moment when the judge read the verdict. As the jury declared one of XXXTENTACION killers, Michael Boatwright, guilty, he appeared to blow a kiss at the camera before a grin appeared on his face. The Miami Herald reports he directed the gesture toward XXXTENTACION’s family who attended court in anticipation of a guilty verdict. The evident lack of remorse will likely play a role in his sentencing next month. Still, X’s mother stated that “Justice was done,” as she left the courtroom on Monday.
Michael Boatwright Convicted In XXXTENTACION’s Murder Case
Police previously established Michael Boatwright as one of two gunmen, alongside Trayvon Newsome, who fatally shot XXXTENTACION. Police said Dedrick Williams served as the getaway driver during the botched robbery. Throughout the trial, the defense attorneys attempted to debunk each piece of evidence presented to the court. When the photos of the suspects flashing cash came up, Boatwright’s lawyer Joseph Kimok confirmed that they held up the money but denied his client pulled the trigger.
Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome will return to court on April 6th for sentencing. However, the judge will sentence the fourth suspect, Robert Allen, who testified against the other three, six days later. Regardless, XXXTENTACION’s mom and the mother of the rapper’s child expressed gratitude for the outcome. Both said the court delivered justice for the late rapper. “Thank you for the love and support. I am eternally grateful for all of the supporters, your positivity, and prayers have carried these last 5 years,” Jenesis Sanchez wrote. Check out the video of Michael Boatwright above.