YNW Melly Seeks Bond Ahead of Double Murder Retrial

Florida rapper YNW Melly, whose real name is Jamell Demons, appeared in a Broward County courtroom as his legal team renewed efforts to secure his release on bond ahead of a September retrial for the 2018 double murder of two YNW Collective members. Melly has been incarcerated for over 2,000 days without bond, following a 2023 mistrial in his first case. His attorneys argue that prolonged detention, alleged mistreatment, and limited access to family and counsel justify release under strict conditions such as house arrest, GPS monitoring, and 24/7 private security funded by his record label. Prosecutors oppose bond, citing the severity of the charges, ballistic and phone evidence, and an ongoing witness tampering case, while the victims’ families have also voiced strong objections. The judge’s decision on bond is expected soon and could significantly impact the high-profile case, which has drawn intense public and industry attention. If convicted in the retrial, Melly faces the possibility of the death penalty.