Chris Samuel
Robert Allen, the individual who provided crucial testimony against three former friends involved in the murder of the late rapper XXXTentacion, has been sentenced to seven years in prison by Circuit Judge Michael Usan.
Plea Deal & Sentencing
Robert Allen, who testified against his former associates in XXXTentacion’s murder case, received a plea deal resulting in a seven-year prison sentence. The judge also granted Allen credit for the five years he had already spent in Broward County jail while awaiting trial.
Judge’s Perspective & Reflection
Allen expressed remorse and pleaded for leniency during the hearing, citing concerns for his safety in state prison.
“Please forgive me, I’m so sorry,” Allen told the court. “Today I plead to the court for my own life not to be sent to state prison because that would be a death sentence.”
The judge acknowledged Allen’s transformation but emphasized that consequences were still necessary.
“I do believe you are not the same person who I arraigned five years ago,” Usan said. “I genuinely believe that you are sorry for what you’ve done and not sorry for yourself.”
Allen’s plea to avoid state prison stemmed from his fear of retaliation from fellow gang members for providing information.
Allen’s Future & Probation
Following his prison term, Robert Allen will be placed on probation for 20 years. While he could have faced a life sentence, the judge opted for a shorter prison term, providing Allen with an opportunity for rehabilitation and rebuilding his life.
Legal Expert’s Perspective
“Allen’s seven-year sentence is shockingly low,” states SOHH legal expert Afi Patterson, Esq of The Black Letter Law. “He was given seven years with credit for time served, so that means he will get credit for all of the time he’s been in custody on this charge. Since he’s been in custody since 2018, he’s already served about five years toward his sentence. That means he has two remaining years. But, depending on how his correctional facility calculates “good time” and handles crimes of violence in that jurisdiction, he may serve 85% or even less of that seven-year sentence.”
Updated by Chris Samuel (5/17/2023)
XXXTentacion Killers Sentenced to “Rot” In Prison As Trial Timeline Concludes
The Hon. Judge Michael Usan dropped the gavel on three life sentences for the three men — Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome – were found guilty last month in the 2018 murder of rising rapper XXXTentacion.
The three men convicted of killing the late-South Florida rapper, XXXTentacion, received life sentences on April 6. The life sentence is a formality as Florida law cites a life sentence for first-degree murder convictions, which all men were charged with.
“You’ll spend every hour and week and year in your cell,” Usan said during the sentencing. “And one day you have passed on and on that day you would’ve served your sentence.”
During the sentencing, XXX’s family and friends were allowed to face the killers.
“You not only killed a son, but you killed a father,” said Solomon Sobande who was XXX’s manager.
“I heard the death penalty is off the table,” Melody Jones, the rapper’s great aunt, told the men. “However, whatever time is given and whichever hole you are sent, I hope it is hell and you rot there.”
The fourth man, Robert Allen, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and will be sentenced on April 12.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (4/6/23 at 6:00 pm)
All three of XXXTentacion’s killers, Michael Boatwright, Dedrick Williams, and Trayvon Newsome were found guilty of killing the late rapper. Over 20 hours of deliberation later– which began on March 7, the jury finally delivered a “guilty” verdict on the XXXTentacion murder trial on March 20. The three men each face life in prison.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (3/20/23 at 1:11 pm)
The three men on trial for the murder of XXXTentacion were found guilty of killing the rapper in a botched robbery-turned-homicide, on March 20.
Guilty As Charged
Michael Boatwright
Boatwright was identified as the triggerman in the shooting that killed XXX and was found guilty of first-degree murder and robbery with a firearm.
Dedrick Williams
Williams was found guilty of first-degree murder, robbery with a firearm, and operating a vehicle without a valid license. Williams was identified in court as the getaway driver.
Trayvon Newsome
The third man, who was also the second gunman in the case. He was also the one seen grabbing XXX’s Louis Vuitton that held the $50,000 in cash from the passenger side. He was found guilty of first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon.
Robert Allen
Allen, the fourth man involved pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and robbery with a firearm in August 2022. Allen was also the prosecution’s star witness, who testified against Williams, Boatwright, and Newsome.
Allen, hoping for better sentencing, may have pleaded guilty, but if all of the men are convicted, he could see lesser sentencing. His sentencing was set originally for Feb. 23 but was changed to follow the trial.
Boatwright, Newsome, and Williams were all convicted of first-degree murder and face mandatory life sentences once sentenced.
XXXTentacion was shot and killed on June 18, 2018, leaving Riva Motorsports. During the trial, it was revealed the men targeted XXX and planned to rob him. Armed with guns, they blocked the exit of the dealership as XXX was leaving. Two men, Williams and Boatwright, approached the rapper’s BMW. There was a brief struggle before Boatwright opened fire, three shots, killing XXXTentacion.
Day 21 & 22: XXXTentacion Murder Trial Jurors Scrutinize Phone Records As Deliberations Continue
The jury in the murder trial of late-Florida rapper, XXXTentacion, has not reached a verdict and continues deliberating since March 7th. The jury will enter its sixth day of deliberations on March 15 at 10:30 a.m. ET.
Day 6 Deliberations For XXXTentacion
There is still no verdict as the jury in the murder trial of late-Florida rapper, XXXtentacion gears to enter its sixth day of deliberations at 10:30 a.m. on March 15th.
Following the state and defense’s closing arguments, the 12-person jury has been in deliberation for approximately 20 hours since March 7.
Requesting to review evidence, on March 13, the jurors crowded near a projector screen to review about 12,000 text messages, a big number of videos, and photographs seized from the two cell phones that also included timestamps, location, and metadata.
The photos and videos from the phones of the alleged shooter, Michael Boatwright, and the accused getaway driver, Dedrick Williams also included the men flashing fistfuls of $100 hours after they robbed, shot, and killed XXX.
Before wrapping up the fourth day, March 13, of deliberation, the jurors also asked to see a transcript of Willam’s statement to detectives following his arrest. Broward County Sheriff, John Curcio, one of the lead detectives in the case, testified on the statement but a transcript was not entered into evidence. The jurors were told by Hon. Judge Michael Usan to rely on their memory of what Curcio said.
On the fifth day of deliberations, March 14, the jury still had no verdict. Judge Usan said the jurors are expected to return for a sixth day, March 15, at 10:30 a.m. to continue deliberations.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (3/14/23 at 6:00 pm)
XXXTentacion Trial – March 13 & 14
The jury, who have been listening to witness testimonies since Feb. 7 in the murder trial of late-Florida rapper, XXXTentacion, has officially entered deliberation on March 8. Just a few hours in, the Hon. Judge Michael Usan instructed the jurors to return on March 9 at 10:30 a.m. to continue deliberations.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (3/8/23 at 6:25 pm)
Spilling into two days, March 7-8, of closing arguments all sides presented arguments one last time. Prosecutor Pascale Achille called the men, Dedrick Williams, Michael Boatwright, and Trayvon Newsom — “predators” who attacked an unsuspecting XXX.
The Prosecution’s Closing Arguments
Achille urged the jury to return with a “guilty” conviction.
She also played cellphone videos of the defendants hours after XXX died and laid out ballistic and cell phone evidence.
“This is who they are,” Achille told the jury while playing videos of the men smiling, dancing, and flashing fistfuls of $100 bills.
“This is their real character,” she continued. “Killers that within 24 hours after shooting the victim dead and stealing $50,000 from him, this is what they do.”
“Look at how happy they look. Look at how excited they look,” she noted as she continued to play the video.
Achille also played surveillance video from the Riva Motorsports and of the men allegedly stashing the Black Dodge Journey SUV she claimed connected the men to the murder.
The Defense Closing Arguments
Boatwright’s attorney, Joseph Kimok presented the final defense closing arguments on March 8. He told jurors that while XXX struggled with his killers before getting shot to death, the DNA found on his body, along with the stolen chain, wasn’t from Boatwright.
Kimok also said the DNA wasn’t Newsome’s, the accused second gunman or Williams who has been accused of being the getaway driver and ringleader.
“Whoever (XXXTentacion) struggled with is not in this courtroom,” Kimok told the jurors. “The DNA proves that someone not named, Michael Boatwright or Trayvon Newsome participated in this murder.”
Boatwright has been named the alleged shooter that shot the three bullets that killed XXXtentacion.
William’s attorney, Mauricio Padilla told the jury Allen was a “liar.” Noting that the prosecution’s additional witnesses also contradicted each other. He also said the Broward County Sheriff’s department didn’t look at other possible suspects, namely rap star Drake, who was beefing with XXX at the time of his death.
Speaking of the social media cash flash, Padilla said Williams did other work, including tattooing that he got paid in cash. He also said the video of Williams with the cash meant nothing.
“Guilt By Association…”
Padilla also made efforts to cast doubt on the surveillance video evidence and told the jury that while Williams was in the dealership and seen walking back to the SUV, there were moments the Black Dodge Journey seems not visible and Williams could have easily gotten out and left.
Newsome’s attorney, George Reres, urged the jury not to convict him based on Allen’s testimony or evidence. Reres said the evidence implicates the other two men, but Newsome.
“He was not there,” Reres told the jury.
Reres also poked at the state’s star witness and noted that Allen was a “12-time convicted felon who should not be believed.”
He also noted that Newsome’s DNA was not found on any evidence.
“He did some stupid things — he posed with some money,” Reres said about Newsome. “Guilt by association is not something the law permits.”
The three men, Dedrick Williams, Michael Boatwright, and Trayvon Newsom could each be convicted for life in prison.
The fourth man, Robert Allen, also the prosecution’s star witness, pleaded guilty and is presently awaiting sentencing.
DAY 18: State & Defense Rest Their Case In XXXTentacion Murder Trial
Five years after XXXTentacion’s murder, the state and defense rested their case on March 3. Gearing up for closing statements, the three men on trial for the late-Florida rapper’s murder each face life in prison.
The murder trial of the late-Florida rapper, XXXTentacion is starting to wind down as all sides, prosecution, and defense have “rested” their cases.
Closing statements are expected to start on March 7.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (3/6/23 at 12:24 pm)
Day 17: Cell Phone Data Links Williams & Boatwright To The Murder Scene
The prosecution called its final witness, on March 2, Broward Sheriff’s Office digital forensics examiner, James Kepvanee.
Kempvanee reviewed phone evidence belonging to defendants Dedrick Williams and Michael Boatwright. According to Kempvanee’s testimony, cell phone location data linked the defendants, Williams and Boatwright to the scene. The phone also included incriminating photographs and videos captured hours after the murder, according to Kempvanee.
He also said one of the photographs was of XXX’s stolen cash taken at around 10:15 p.m. on June 18, 2018, the day of the late rapper’s murder.
Day 16: Court Was Not In Session
On the sixteenth day of the trial, March 1, there was no court in session.
Day 15: State Close To “Resting” Case
Though the state and defense continued to cross-examine expert witnesses, they revisited the witness intimidation towards the state’s star witness, Robert Allen.
According to Broward County Deputy David Alvarez, he was escorting Allen when Newsome started yelling at them.
“He began to yell ‘there he is, working with the popo, the police,” Alvarez said regarding Newsome’s outbursts before court. “He also said he’s working with the white man now.”
The state is expected to call its final witness on March 2 with no court scheduled for March 1.
Day 14: Court Was Not In Session
On the fourteenth day of the trial, Feb. 27, there was no court in session.
Day 13: Drake May Be Skipping Court But His Name Continues To Haunt XXXTentacion Murder Trial
Drake was recently dismissed from the murder trial of late Florida rapper XXXTentacion after his legal team filed motions requesting deposition. But despite his dismissal, since Feb. 16, his name continues to haunt the trial. The Toronto rapper’s feud with XXXTentacion resurfaced as defense attorneys attempted to tie the murder to his 2017 friction with the late rapper.
According to Drake’s attorney Bradford Cohen, who filed the motion, there was “no evidence” connecting Drake to XXX’s murder.
“No evidence,” Cohen insisted in a reported court filing. “Has been provided to substantiate the assertion that the [Drake] in any way contributed to, had knowledge of, or participated in the alleged incident.”
“… to mandate that he appear for deposition for something that he very clearly has no relevant knowledge of is unreasonable,” he continued in the court filing.
Prosecutor Pascale Achille has also made efforts to cast doubt on the defense’s argument that XXX’s death was not connected to other artists or media personalities. But the defense, wanted to question Drake’s involvement, if any at all.
“At this point it appears to me nothing more than harassment of someone …” Judge Michael Usan said. “You are now just trying to drag somebody in who is a celebrity.”
Drake Vs. XXXTentacion
On the cross-examination, Broward Sheriff’s Detective John Curcio was asked about the beef between the rappers. Referring to January 2017 when Drake released the preview of his ”KMT” for his More Life album. It was when people began comparing his flow to XXX’s breakout song, “Look At Me!”
Though Drake denied he jacked the song, XXX accused him of stealing his flow in an interview on Miami’s 103.5 The Beat.
“He is not a man. I think he’s a b*tch, that’s a b*tch move,” XXX said angrily after he called Drake out.
Referencing the beef, the defense attorneys also asked Det. Curcio of his knowledge of the social media posts that XXX publicly shared that outright pointed at Drake — and said if he ever got killed, to blame it on him. XXX later said his page had been hacked.
He was also questioned why he didn’t further investigate the other rappers, who XXX was also feuding with including — 600 Breezy, Tekashi 6ix9ine, Joe Budden, and Migos members: Quavo, Offset, and the late-rapper Takeoff.
Curcio said he was only aware of the tweet related to Drake, which could not be confirmed, he said.
“I have no problem with Drake,” Curcio replied after paraphrasing XXX’s social posts.
Day 12: Medical Examiner Detailed The Three Fatal Shots To XXX’s Neck
Broward County Medical Examiner, Iouri Boiko provided the six-person jury with details on the fatal wounds XXXTentacion, whose real name is Jahseh Onfroy, sustained when he was gunned down in the summer of 2018.
Boiko said each bullet struck XXX just centimeters apart.
“Three separate bullets were there an exit wound on wound A for Mr. Onfroy,” state prosecutor Pascale Achille asked.
The jury was presented with graphic photos of the fatal wounds sustained by the late rapper. Judge Michael Usan also asked the photos not be turned toward the public due to the unsettling images.
“No,” Boiko replied, noting a projectile or bullet remained inside XXX.
Broward County firearms expert, William Ruiz Fontanez said all bullets came from the same firearm.
“The three bullets were fired by the same unknown 22-long rifle caliber firearm,” said William Ruiz Fontanez also referring to casings found on the scene.
The trial is expected to last through March 31 but could wrap earlier.
Day 11: Dedrick Williams’ Phone Traced Before & After The Botched Robbery
Broward Sheriff Office Det. John Curcio testified on William’s cell phone evidence on Feb. 21. According to Curcio, the timelines leading up to XXX’s untimely death matched.
“The two different timelines mirrored each other,” Curcio said. “When the phone arrived, the car, the journey is seen, when the phone leaves Riva, the journey is leaving Riva.
Prosecutors also played Instagram videos of Williams flashing the thousands of dollars of stolen cash on social media.
Broward Sheriff Office Det. Walter Foster said the clothing Williams was wearing the day of the murder helped him identify him.
“He was wearing a white or gray tank top and some dark colored pants and some orange slides or slippers,” Foster described.
Day 10: Court Not In Session: President’s Day Observance
The court will not be in session due to the observance of President’s Day on Feb. 20. Court will resume on Feb. 21.
Day 9: ‘I Saw Him Struggling’ — Eyewitness Testifies
Riva Motorsports sales representative, Marco Rueda, also hit the stand and told jurors on Feb. 17 “there was a lot of struggling going on.” He recalled being 60 feet away when the men ambushed XXXtentacion.
“One of them came over to the passenger’s side when the door was open,” Rueda testified.
Following the gunshots, Rueda said he saw the men speed off in the black Dodge Journey
“I saw the person over Mr. Onfroy holding the rifle gun whatever it was,” Rueta said. “I saw him struggling, struggling, reaching in, reaching into the car, the other gentleman also reaching reaching and I heard the gunshots.”
He also shared how the late rapper’s death affected him.
“He was such a nice young man,” Rueda added. “He always came in super happy. That is the way he seemed that day.”
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (2/17/23 at 6:00 pm)
Day 8: Lead Forensic Investigator Walks Jury Through Gunshot Evidence On XXXTentacion’s Clothing
Broward Sheriff’s Office leads forensic investigator, Det. Clint Williams, on Feb. 16, walked the jury through evidence collected on the day of the crime, June 18, 2016. The alleged three men on trial killed the late rapper in a botched robbery, with a fourth pleading guilty in August 2022.
Walking the jury through graphic evidence, Achille asked Det. Williams about the gunshot “defects” evident on the jacket and sweater XXXTentacion wore at Riva Motorsports on June 2016, in Deerfield Beach, Fla., where he was murdered.
During the three-minute robbery, Robert Allen, who testified against Dedrick Williams, Michael Boatwright, Trayvon Newsome, claimed — Boatwright fired the two-three shots that killed XXXTentacion and Newsome snatched the Louis Vuitton bag with cash.
The wounds sustained by XXX, matched the physical evidence according to Det. Williams, who spoke on the forensics, connected to the video where the shooter, allegedly Boatwright, aimed a gun directly into the driver’s window on the left side of the car.
Achille pointed out the holes on the left side of the jacket and sweater near the neck where XXX sustained the catastrophic gunshot wounds.
“Does it appear the defects in state’s [Exhibit] 34 are coming from where it would be the left neck of the victim where gunshots would be if the victim was shot in the left side of the neck?”
“Both the sweater and the jacket support that,” Det. Williams replied.
The Key Witnesses Questioned So Far . . .
Allen also said he contacted Tony Robinson, William’s friend, who rented the vehicle for the men, to coordinate the rental. The aforementioned vehicle was used in the commission of the crime.
“I received a call from Chuck,” Robinson said. “Saying that Big Rob, [Allen], wanted to rent a car, but because Chucky, [Williams], wasn’t going to be present, I asked him to have Big Rob call me directly.”
Later that day she got a phone call from Boatright, who told her they had wrecked the Dodge Journey.
Robinson said when she caught up with Williams, he was “upset.”
She also said she stayed at her house while Williams drove to the scene of the accident in her car. She also recalled when Allen, Boatwright, Newsome, and Williams later showed up together. The group argued about who would take responsibility for the rental car damages, she recalled.
“He, [Williams], felt he shouldn’t have to pay for it since he wasn’t there when it happened,” she testified.
That’s when Williams handed her $1000 in cash that she used to pay for the damages to the rental car.
“They were one-hundred-denomination bills,” Robinson recalled. “And they were all crispy.”
Snapping Photos?
Scott Barbieux, a witness who saw the moment XXX was killed, also testified. He also captured the incident with this phone. Barbieux said he heard the shots fired before the men drove away in the rental.
“When I heard the shots for a couple seconds I was behind the car,” Barbieux said. “Then, when I turn around, that’s when they jumped in the car and they drove away.”
Barbieux testified he duck for cover and once the men drove away in the Dodge he ran to the BMW. After shaking the lifeless XXX, he said, he snapped a photo of the wounded rapper and posted it on his Snapchat minutes later.
Achille asked why he took the picture.
“Because I was a big fan of his, and I wanted a photo to remember that forever,” Barbieux replied.
Barbieux’s then-girlfriend, Layla Can also testified a similar account to Barbieux and also noted she too was with at the Riva Motorsports that afternoon.
“They were yelling, ‘Get out of the car'”, Can testified. “I saw them reach into the car. Both of them were on the driver’s side.”
Day 7: XXXTentacion’s Fatal Robbery Not Connected To Drake Beef, Witness Testifies
Tenell Carter, the ex-girlfriend of one of the men involved in the botched robbery-turned-homicide, hit the witness stand on the sixth day of the murder trial. Carter said Drake and other celebrities named had nothing to do with the murder.
Drake won’t be deposed, according to Hon. Judge Michael Usan.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (2/17/23 at 12:15 pm)
Dedrick Williams’ Ex-Girlfriend Takes The Stand
On the stand, Assistant State Attorney Pascale Achille questioned Dedrick Williams’ ex-girlfriend Tenell Carter, who was told by Williams himself that he was present for the robbery and murder.
Williams is one of three men — Michael Boatwright, 28, and Trayvon Newsome, 24, on trial for the killing of South Florida rapper XXXTentacion on June 18, 2018. The fourth gunman, Robert Allen, pleaded guilty in 2022 and was the state’s star witness.
Williams is the alleged getaway driver.
“Dedrick Williams actually told you that he was present during the robbery and the homicide of Jahseh Onfroy, did he not,” Achille asked Carter.
“Yes, ma’am,” Carter responded.
Achille also asked Carter if Williams told her he saw the robbery by the accused — shooter, Boatwright, and the gunman, Newsome.
“And he told you you knew them personally?” Achille followed.
Carter confirmed both questions.
“It wasn’t supposed to go down like that,” Carter told Achille that Williams had told her,
Day 6: Drake Won’t Get Summoned To XXXTentacion Murder Trial
Achille also questioned the involvement of other celebrities mentioned or named as involved in the case. Months before the trial, many rumors circulated on social media, adding a star-studded list of rappers to the witness list.
From Drake, with whom XXX had an ongoing feud, to Chicago rapper 600 Breezy, Tekashi 6ix9ine, Joe Budden, and Migos members: Quavo, Offset, and the late-rapper Takeoff, who passed away in November 2022.
The witness list was initially submitted by Williams’ defense attorney Mauricio Padilla who named Drake in his opening statements.
As of Feb. 16, Drake will not be summoned to be deposed in the XXXTentacion murder trial. At the time of press, it was unknown whether the other named celebrities would be pursued or if they would follow Drake’s recent moves and file motions to skip getting deposed.
Updated By: Nadya Nataly (2/16/23 at 2:30 pm)
Drake’s Armed Security ‘Kicked’ The Subpoena
William’s defense attorney, Mauricio Padilla issued a motion requiring Drake to deliver a deposition. Padilla also mentioned Drake in his opening statements on Feb. 7. Los Angeles Magazine legal reporter Meghann Cuniff shared, on Twitter, court documents where Padilla detailed the attempt to deliver the subpoena to Drake’s California home was “kicked” down the driveway by his armed security after the servers were sent away on Feb. 14th.
“I Knew There Was A Good Chance We Could Be Caught” — State’s Star Witness Details XXXTentacion’s Final Moments
Robert Allen, the only suspect to plead guilty in 2022 for the murder of the late rapper XXXTentacion, continued to testify against the other suspects on trial on Feb. 14.
Detailing the moments leading up to XXX’s death, Allen, under oath described his role during the moments leading up to the shooting. He also identified He identified his co-defendants on the surveillance video and in court. He followed his testimony with detailed information on their roles in during the robbery.
The fourth defendant, said once they recognized the rapper, it was settled they would rob him. Allen also testified that Canadian rapper Drake did not hire him or any of the defendants to rob and kill XXXTentacion, according to continued reports from Law and Crime.
Inside the store, Allen, along with Williams, Boatwright, and Newsome can be seen on camera eyeing XXXTentacion.
To appear as if they left the Riva Motorsports’ premises in Deerfield, Fla., the men parked across the street and waited for the rapper. The plan, according to Allen, was to block XXX off. The rapper was unaware he was in any danger, Allen also added.
“I knew there was a good chance we would be caught,” Allen said.
“Drake Did Not Hire Me”
Once XXX left Riva Motorsports and got into his car, the black Dodge Journey “pulled up.” Boatwright and Newsome jumped out of the car. While Boatwright held the gun, Newsom tugged at XXX’s chain.
Newsom seized the Louis Vuitton bag on the passenger side. Meanwhile, Boatwright allegedly shot at the driver’s side window, point blank at XXX, according to Allen.
After the incident, the men fled to Robinson’s residence, Allen said.
Allen also admitted on the cross-examination that the made a deal with prosecutors could reduce his sentence to five to six years for his testimony. He also confirmed he could walk free sooner than later if prosecutors are pleased with his testimony and his co-defendants are convicted.
Wrapping up his last day on the stand, Allen, on redirect, said five-time Grammy Award-winning rapper, Drake did not hire him, Williams, Boatwright, or Newsome, to rob or kill XXXtentacion.
Day 5: Drake Objects Subpoena, Legal Team Files Motion
Canadian rapper Drake was supposed to get deposed on Feb. 10, but filed a motion, on Feb. 13, to get out of the deposition in the murder trial, according to TMZ reports. This follows Judge Usan’s order to appear on Zoom on Feb. 24 to answer questions after allegedly skipping a deposition on Jan. 27.
If Drizzy misses the next deposition date, he must appear inside Broward County’s 17th Judicial Circuit Court on Feb. 27 for Judge Usan to determine whether he should be held in contempt of court.
State Witness Admits He Lied About Snatching XXXTentacion’s Chain To Get A Better Deal
XXXTentatcion murder trial witness, Robert Allen under oath on Feb. 13 said he lied in previous statements to detectives. Allen is one of the four men that ambushed the late rapper at Riva Motorsports in June 2018. Allen pleaded guilty in August 2022.
Under oath, Allen admitted he wasn’t forthcoming during initial questioning. He confessed he lied about the money, guns, and chain snatching.
“I tried to make it seem like I didn’t know nothing… I was basically just telling [detectives] what Dedrick [Williams] told me. I was just trying to avoid putting myself under, at the time.”
Allen continued to testify and identified his friend, Tony Robinson as the individual who rented the Black Dodge Journey for him. William’s attorney, Mauricio Padilla asserted Allen and Robinson had a sexual relationship, but Achille argued Padilla was intentionally trying to mislead the jury.
Honorable Judge Michael Usan released the jury for the day, court and counsel would return at 3:30 p.m. EST for Motions.
Day 4: Court Was Not In Session
On the fourth day of the trial, Feb. 10, there was no court in session.
Day 2 & 3: Witness Intimidations Clouds XXXTentacion Murder Trial
Prosecutors said co-defendant Trayvon Newsome yelled slurs and attempted to intimidate Robert Allen, the state witness who has implicated three other men in the robbery and murder of XXXTentacion on Feb. 9.
Allen pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in August 2022. He took the stand for the first time on Feb. 9 to testify against co-defendants — Newsome, Boatwright, and Williams. All four men are accused of participating in the June 18, 2018 killing of XXXTentacion.
Florida prosecutors said XXXTentacion murder defendant Trayvon Newsome yelled at the confessed assailant, Robert Allen, while in holding cells before the court.
The alleged witness tampering was confirmed by Broward Deputy David Alvarez who testified that Newsome yelled at Allen while the two men were being transported to the court that same day.
“What we can hear is,” Alvarez testified. “Mr. Newsome yell out ‘there he is, working with the police, the ‘po-po.’ He also said ‘you’re working with the White man now.”
Prosecutor, Pascale Achille, pointed out to the court that Allen was a material witness getting intimidated by Newsome in the midst of testimony proceedings.
Prosecutor Achille Asks Allen For Details Leading To XXX’s Death
“I heard that I was a police ass n—-,” Allen told Hon. Judge Michael Usan. “I work for the police, I’m doing a white man’s job and I’m a sell-out.”
“Were you able to identify who it was that made these comments,” Judge Usan asked Allen.
Allen identified Newsome.
“I think it’s a clear attempt for him to try and change the witness’ testimony,” Achille said. “to try and change the outcome of this case.”
During Achille’s cross-examination with Allen, she also asked him to detail the events leading up to the late rapper, XXXTentacion’s death.
The surveillance video of the incident was presented in court while Achille asked Allen questions and provided narration as it played.
Achille also asked him to confirm what he and the other defendants that allegedly killed X, what they looked like, what they changed into, and the communication they had throughout the day, leading up to X’s murder.
The court is not expected to be in session on Feb. 10 but will resume on Feb. 13.
Day 1: Prosecutors Present Opening Statements
The trial for the murder of XXXTentacion was underway on Feb. 7 with prosecutors making their opening statements. The accused killers, Dedrick Williams, 26, Michael Boatwright, 28, Trayvon Newsome, 24, were present in court as opening statements were underway signaling the start of the trial.
Updated By: Chris Samuel (2/7/23 at 5:22 pm)
Opening statements by the prosecutor and lawyers were presented at trial for the murder of the late rapper, XXXTentacion, who was shot and killed on June 18, 2018.
The trial’s prosecutor, Pascale Achille, read her opening statements. She detailed how defendants Boatwright, Williams, and Newsome coordinated the robbery and murder of XXXTentacion.
Achille described the day of the murder. She detailed that XXXTentacion, whose real name was Jahseh Onfroy, was with friends looking to purchase a motorcycle.
She also pointed out to the jurors the defendants set out to purposely commit robbery and murder in 2018, at Riva Motorsports in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
“They Flash It Like It’s Christmas Day”
In the opening statement by Achille, she described the aftermath of the murder, with the defendants flashing money and other stolen belongings of the slain rapper.
“They go on social media and start bragging that they have this influx of cash,” Achille said. “They flash it like it’s Christmas Day.”
Achille used examples of surveillance videos, cell phone locations, and social media photos that would all be listed as evidence to justify each defendant found guilty.
Achille listed several witnesses that she would use to identify who shot XXX and the events that transpired before and after the robbery.
Boatwright’s lawyer, Joseph Kimok, defended his client in his opening statement and claimed his innocence following Achille’s opening presentation.
“Michael Boatwright is not guilty,” Kimok said. “The police in 2018 arrested the wrong guy.”
The fourth defendant, Robert Allen, was not present in court during opening statements. Allen, who plead guilty in August 2022, has also agreed to testify against his co-defendants — Boatwright, Newsome, and Williams.
Allen pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and robbery with a firearm. He will be sentenced on Feb. 23.
Witnesses in the trial could include rappers Drake, Tekashi 6ix9ine, 600 Breezy, Offset, and Quavo.
Opening Statements Begin
After jury selection lasted over three weeks, opening statements began Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 10:45 am. SOHH’s first day of official trial coverage will begin on Feb. 7. Stay tuned as SOHH will be providing non-stop updates.
Ongoing Jury Selection
Jury selection continued for the murder trial of XXXTentacion. Opening statements are expected to occur the week of Monday, Feb. 6.
5 Things To Know As The Trial Commences
Three Heading To Trial
The following three out of four suspects, Dedrick Williams (26), Trayvon Newsome (24), and Michael Boatwright (28), will be facing trial for the murder of the late rapper XXXTentacion. All three men, also charged with armed robbery, could receive life sentences if convicted of first-degree murder.
Last August, Robert Allen (26) was the only suspect to plead guilty to second-degree murder. According to investigators, surveillance video and other evidence link the defendants to the killing.
At the time of his death, XXXtentacion also had a number of charges stacked up against him. He was set to stand trial for domestic abuse before his untimely death, according to Law and Crime reports. The late South Florida rapper gained rapid popularity that landed him an American Music Award for favorite Soul and R&B for his ’17’ album in 2018. A year later, in 2019, he also received a posthumous honor, nearly one year after his untimely death at the Billboard Music Award for Top R&B Album for ’17’.
Judge Rules On Gang Expert
Just before jury selection, the defense attempted to have Jesse De La Cruz, a former gang leader, and convicted felon, testify. De La Cruz, initiated at 13, was a member of two street gangs before changing his life and earning a doctorate on how gangs exert social control in communities.
“The gangs you have in Florida, that are like the Crips or the Bloods, are originally from California, so they have the same characteristics, the same nuances, as the ones over there,” De La Cruz said. The judge later ruled that the gang expert would not be allowed.
Witnesses In XXXTentacion’s Murder Trial
Due to a substantial amount of swirling internet rumors, several rappers have been named as witnesses in the murder case of the late Florida rapper. The rappers on the witness list include chart-topping rapper Drake, with whom X had an ongoing feud—and others, including Chicago rapper 600 Breezy, Tekashi 6ix9ine, and Migos members: Quavo, Offset, and late artist Takeoff, who passed away in November.
According to Billboard, the witness list was initially submitted by Miami defense attorney Mauricio Padilla, who also represents Dedrick Williams–the alleged getaway driver. However, the rappers are not obligated to appear in court.
Arrests Made For The Murder Of XXXTentacion
In July 2018, A Florida grand jury indicted the four men on first-degree murder and armed robbery charges in the fatal shooting of the “HOPE” rapper.
Dedrick Williams and Robert Allen were seen on surveillance cameras where the late rapper was shopping. A store clerk claimed he witnessed Williams purchasing a black neoprene mask and recognized him as a repeat customer.
According to Miami Police, Williams was arrested during a traffic stop in Pompano Beach two days after XXXTentacion’s murder, and Michael Boatwright was arrested for unrelated drug charges shortly after.
Allen, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, was tracked and arrested by U.S. Marshals in Macon, Georgia. Seven weeks after the shooting, Trayvon Newsome, also identified as the second gunman, surrendered to authorities.
XXXTentacion Shot And Killed
Authorities stated XXXTentacion was leaving Riva Motorsports in Deerfield Beach, FL, with a friend when an SUV blocked his BMW on June 18, 2018. Two masked gunmen then approached the driver’s window, where one shot XXX and grabbed the late rapper’s Louis Vuitton bag containing $50K before speeding away.
The Miami Herald reported XXX had previously stopped at Bank of America and withdrew the $50K in 100 dollar bills. In addition, Boatwright is believed to have been the suspect who pulled the trigger, resulting in the rapper’s death.
Originally Written By: Nicole Bartley
