Broward County, FL – Double homicide suspect YNW Melly (real name Jamell Demons) allegedly tested positive for the coronavirus earlier this month and was desperate to get out of jail. But despite his pleas, he won’t be leaving the Broward County jail anytime soon.
According to TMZ, a judge shot down his legal team’s request on Tuesday (April 14). Melly’s lawyer Bradford Cohen filed legal documents requesting his release after he says his client started exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms such as labored breathing, chills, headaches and body aches.
Cohen argued “inadequate care and protection provided by the jail” put Melly at risk of dying from the virus. Melly fought for house arrest and at-home medical care, but the judge said if he requires special medical treatment while in jail, he can request it from the Broward Sheriff’s Office.
YNW Melly Reportedly Facing Death Penalty In Double Murder Case
Melly stands accused of killing Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams and Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr. in 2018. He’s been in jail since last year awaiting trial. The families of his alleged victims adamantly opposed Melly’s release, explaining he didn’t deserve any mercy.
If convicted, Melly faces the death penalty.
Tekashi 6ix9ine, who was nearing the end of his 24-month sentence at Queens Detention Facility, received the opposite treatment. The presiding judge, Paul A. Engelmayer, sympathized with his asthmatic condition and allowed the polarizing rapper to finish the remaining four months of his sentence at home.