Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, has been released from prison after a Jamaican court decided against retrying his 2014 murder case. This decision follows the UK Privy Council’s earlier ruling to overturn his conviction due to juror misconduct.
In a unanimous decision, the Jamaican Court of Appeal concluded, “The interests of justice do not require a new trial to be ordered,” leading to the immediate release of Kartel and his three co-defendants, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John.
Kartel and his co-defendants were convicted in 2014 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, allegedly over missing firearms. The prosecution argued that Kartel had lured Williams to his home where he was beaten to death, although Williams’ body was never recovered.
Throughout his decade-long incarceration, Kartel maintained his innocence, highlighting his severe health issues, including Graves’ Disease and heart problems, exacerbated by harsh prison conditions. His defense detailed his confinement in a brick cell with no air circulation, water, and only a bucket for a toilet.
A 2023 medical affidavit warned that Kartel’s deteriorating health could be fatal without surgery. This, along with the psychological and financial impact of a potential retrial, influenced the court’s decision.
Following the court’s decision, jubilant fans celebrated outside the courthouse, chanting “Free worl’ boss!” as Kartel’s attorney, Isat Buchanan, emerged to announce the news.
This ruling brings to a close a protracted legal battle that saw the case escalate to Jamaica’s highest court, the UK-based Privy Council. With the conviction now overturned and no retrial ordered, Vybz Kartel and his co-defendants are finally free.
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