In a recent development, Tory Lanez, the rapper convicted for shooting Megan Thee Stallion, has been denied bail and will serve a 10-year sentence in state prison.
The decision was made by Judge David Herriford during a hearing in Los Angeles.
Lanez’s appeal for the verdict is being represented by the criminal justice nonprofit, Unite the People.
Lanez’s legal team, led by attorney Crystal Morgan, filed a motion requesting Judge Herriford to suspend the prison sentence during the appeal process.
They proposed that Lanez be allowed to reside in the Los Angeles area with his wife and young son.
However, the motion was denied due to several factors.
These include the violent nature of Lanez’s conviction, his history of violating court orders, and the risk of deportation as a noncitizen from Canada.
Crystal Morgan expressed disappointment at the denial but emphasized their dedication to fighting for Lanez’s rights.
She mentioned the possibility of filing a similar motion for bail in the appellate court.
Morgan acknowledged the challenges they have faced throughout Lanez’s case but maintained their belief in his innocence and commitment to a fair trial and opportunity to appeal.
Lanez was found guilty of three felonies in December, including assault with a semiautomatic firearm, possession of a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence.
The sentencing took place last month after multiple delays.
Lanez received credit for the time he has already served since his conviction.
The trial surrounding Lanez’s actions sparked significant controversy within the hip-hop community.
It brought attention to important issues such as the reluctance of Black victims to engage with law enforcement, gender dynamics in hip-hop, online toxicity, the protection of Black women, and the impact of misogynoir.
In an Instagram post following his sentencing, Lanez addressed his fans, asserting his innocence and vowing to persevere despite the jail time.
He acknowledged taking responsibility for his interactions with the involved parties but made it clear that he did not apologize for the charges he believes were wrongfully imposed on him.
Lanez expressed his determination to continue fighting until he emerges victorious, highlighting his track record of overcoming adversity.
As Tory Lanez begins his 10-year prison sentence, his legal battle continues.
The denial of bail serves as a setback, but Lanez remains resolute in his pursuit of justice.
His case has captivated the public, shedding light on important societal issues, and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the hip-hop community.
