Jury selection for the upcoming murder trial of YNW Melly has begun in Florida. The rapper faces the death penalty after being booked for two counts of first-degree murder in February 2019. After the jury is finalized, opening statements will begin shortly afterward.
Experts expect the selection process to be lengthy as Melly faces the death penalty if convicted. Broward Circuit Judge John Murphy recently sided with the state prosecutors’ motion to follow a new statute in the state that allows juries to recommend a death sentence with an 8-4 vote. In the past, jurors had to be unanimous on the decision.
YNW Melly's Booking Photo
In the four years since Melly's initial arrest, he and his mother have provided updates on his case on social media. Earlier this year, his mom shared a heartfelt letter he penned from behind bars. “Hey ma, damn y’all made my night my whole month,” Melly wrote with hearts. “So glad I seen y’all. I hope y’all seen me. I know y’all did right when you went screamin ‘I SEE HIM’ they made you leave. [annoyed face] I’m so glad I seen you ma! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Tell Grandma & Silas I love them and appreciate them so much. It was good to see them as well."
His mom added in the caption of the post: “I will always be here to make your darkest nights bright even if I have to bring the light to you son. I love you @ynwmelly so much my 1st born.” Be on the lookout for updates on Melly's case in the coming weeks.
[Via]