Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel is finally free.
Just over a decade ago in March 2014, the musician was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. In March, the conviction was overturned due to juror misconduct.
It was decided earlier this afternoon that Cartel and co-defendants Sean Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St. John will not face a retrial. “Having taken into account all the factors considered by the court, we conclude that the interests of justice do not require a new trial for the appellant,” Judge Marva McDonald-Bishop said. “We therefore make the following order: A finding of acquittal and sentence is entered against the appellant.”
Poetically, this happened the day before Jamaica Emancipation Day, a week-long celebration that culminates in Jamaica’s Independence Day.
It’ll be a sight to see when he performs for the first time, or starts working with the big names who have been fighting for his freedom all these years.
