YNW Melly’s Ex-Released After Being Jailed for Failure to Testify at Murder Trial
Ex-Boyfriend’s Journey to Testify in Court
Mariah Hamilton, the ex-girlfriend of South Florida rapper YNW Melly, spent her twelfth day in Broward County Jail for civil contempt. This rare case involves holding someone who isn’t charged with a crime in jail. Her situation is connected to YNW Melly’s upcoming retrial, where she was a key witness.
Background on the Case
YNW Melly, whose real name is Jamell Demons, is accused of shooting and killing his friends, Christopher Thomas Jr. and Anthony Williams, in 2018 in Miramar. His first trial ended in a mistrial in 2023. The 22-year-old rapper is facing the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty if convicted.
Hamilton’s Role in the Trial
When Hamilton failed to appear at YNW Melly’s double murder trial in 2023, she violated a judge’s order to testify. It wasn’t until she left the country that law enforcement became aware of the warrant for her arrest. She eventually agreed to sign a written promise to appear for all future court dates and stay in touch with her attorney and prosecutors.
Judge’s Ruling
On Friday, Judge Martin S. Fein ruled that Hamilton could be released from jail, but would have to wear an ankle monitor. The judge emphasized the importance of Hamilton’s testimony in the case, stating, "Miss Hamilton, you’ve got to show up. If someone subpoenas you for a deposition, or a hearing, or a trial, whether that’s the state or whether that’s the defense, you’ve just gotta answer the subpoena."
Florida Statute 902.15
Fein ruled in favor of the state, citing Florida statute 902.15, which allows for this procedure only in cases punishable by life or the death penalty. "What makes it unique here is that [Florida statute] 902.15 allows this procedure only in a case that is punishable by life or the death penalty, and that happens to be the case that we’re involved with here," Fein said.
Latest Developments
In late 2023, after YNW Melly’s trial ended in a mistrial, Broward Sheriff’s detectives charged him and Cortlen Henry, his alleged accomplice, with witness tampering. The two allegedly arranged to have a key witness not testify.
Conclusion
Hamilton’s release from jail marks a significant development in the case, as her testimony is crucial in determining the outcome of YNW Melly’s retrial. The case remains ongoing, with new developments emerging regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the significance of Florida statute 902.15 in this case?
- Florida statute 902.15 allows for the procedure of holding a witness in contempt and allowing them to be held in jail in cases punishable by life or the death penalty, which is applicable in YNW Melly’s case.
- What is Mariah Hamilton’s role in the trial?
- Hamilton is a key witness in YNW Melly’s trial and was expected to testify, but failed to appear, leading to her arrest and jailing.
- What is the purpose of the ankle monitor?
- The ankle monitor is a condition of Hamilton’s release from jail, requiring her to be monitored and ensuring she appears for all future court dates and testimony.
