Dancehall musician Vybz Kartel released from prison after serving 13 years for murder.
Dancehall artist Vybz Kartel has been released from prison after 13 years for a murder conviction.
Jamaica’s Court of Appeal decided against a retrial for the murder of Vybz Kartel citing his deteriorating health and the psychological & financial impact on him.
His defence noted his severe condition, including a swollen neck and face, which has worsened over the years.
The court of appeal ruled unanimously to free Kartel & his co-accused, Shawn ‘Storm Storm’ Campbell’ Andre St John & Kahira Jones. The decision was influenced by several factors, including the unavailability of witnesses and trial exhibits as well as Kartel’s declining health.
The court found that the prosecution did not effectively account for the availability of its witnesses & that several trial exhibits were either unavailable or unaccounted for. The substantial resources used during the initial trial were deemed a significant burden on the court system.
