Rapper YNW Melly, whose legal name is Jamell Demons, sought bond in a Broward courtroom on Tuesday as he awaits his double murder re-trial.
Attorneys representing Demons told the judge that if bond were granted, his record label would post the money. As part of the defense's proposal for pre-trial release, Demons would agree to house arrest, wear an ankle monitor, and be accompanied by three security guards at all times.
The rapper is accused of shooting and killing Christopher Thomas Jr and Anthony Williams in October 2018. Both victims were members of the YNW Collective along with Demons.
His initial trial on the charges resulted in a mistrial in July 2023. Demons has remained in custody for over 2,000 days since his arrest.
Tuesday's court appearance was an Arthur hearing, a proceeding where defendants charged with offenses typically not subject to bond can ask for one. Demons' lawyers filed a motion for pre-trial release in March, citing alleged abuse by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, including denial of access to family and counsel.
Prosecutors argued against granting bond, citing the capital murder allegations and a pending case accusing Demons of tampering with a witness.
Demons' mother, Jamie Demons-King, attended the hearing, along with other family and friends filling the courtroom seats.
"We are really hopeful today that he’s going to get a bond and be able to come home," Jamie Demons-King said. "He’s been through a lot these last six years in jail, three years with no phone calls, no visitation."
Demons has made multiple previous requests for bond over the past six years, but each one has been denied. Defense attorneys are hopeful the mistrial outcome from the first trial may influence the judge's decision this time.
The judge presiding over the case is expected to issue a ruling on the bond request in the coming days.
Demons' second trial on the double murder charges is currently scheduled to begin on September 10th. If found guilty, he could face the death penalty.