Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, was released from prison after judges in Jamaica decided that he should not face a retrial for murder. This decision comes after his conviction was overturned by UK judges in March. Kartel had been accused of the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams in Jamaica, but he has consistently maintained his innocence.
The case against him hinged on an incident where victim Clive Williams and another man, Lamar Chow, were allegedly given two unlicensed firearms by Kartel for safekeeping. When they failed to return the firearms as agreed, they were reportedly summoned to Kartel’s house in August 2011. Chow stated that they were attacked and that the last thing he saw was Clive Williams lying motionless on the ground. Days later, the house burned down and Williams’ body has never been found.
Kartel, along with his co-accused Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, were convicted and sentenced to life in prison, with Kartel being informed that he would spend a minimum of 35 years behind bars. His defense team argued that a juror who was accused of attempting to bribe others should have been removed from the trial, and this formed a key part of Kartel’s appeal process.
In March, the Privy Council in London—a court of appeal for Jamaica and other Commonwealth countries—agreed with Kartel’s case. The judges ruled that the decision not to remove the juror compromised the safety of the convictions and was deemed “an infringement of the [defendants’] fundamental right to a fair hearing.”
This decision has led to Kartel’s release, ending a lengthy legal battle that has garnered significant attention in Jamaica and internationally.
On Wednesday, Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop, one of three judges sitting at Jamaica’s Court of Appeal, articulated the decision not to pursue a new trial for Kartel and his co-defendants. She highlighted the consideration of various factors including the nature and seriousness of the offense, the passage of time, the lack of access to witnesses and evidence, and the significant expense of a retrial. Additionally, she noted the declining health of Kartel, emphasizing that a new trial would have had a detrimental impact on his physical and mental well-being. She concluded that the interests of justice did not mandate a new trial and announced that Kartel and his co-defendants were formally acquitted.
The hearing at Jamaica’s Court of Appeal reportedly received substantial attention, with heavy security at the courthouse in Kingston, the country’s capital. Notably, Vybz Kartel is celebrated as one of Jamaica’s most prominent artists and has collaborated with global performers such as Jay-Z, Eminem, and Rihanna. Among his numerous hits are “Clarks,” “Ramping Shop,” and “Summer Time.” His success extended beyond music, leading to ventures in shoes, alcohol, and condoms. Kartel also made history as the first dancehall artist to headline his own reality TV show, “Teacha’s Pet.”
Reflecting on Kartel’s release, Seani B, who presents 1Xtra’s Dancehall Show, expressed that it signifies a monumental day for Jamaica, dancehall music, and the Jamaican judicial system. Kartel is acknowledged as one of Jamaica’s most influential dancehall artists, and his return holds significance for a new generation of dancehall enthusiasts eagerly anticipating his resurgence in the music scene.
While Kartel’s release brought relief to many, there’s also an acknowledgment of the tragedy for the family of the individual who was killed many years ago. The impact of this decision is complex, encompassing both celebration and somber reflection.
