YNW Melly’s fourth bond request comes as he spends his 27th birthday in jail, awaiting a retrial for double murder after more than seven years of pretrial detention. He has been incarcerated since February 13, 2019. Melly faces two counts of first-degree murder and could receive the death penalty if found guilty.
Melly’s previous trial ended in a mistrial in 2023 due to a deadlocked jury. Prosecutors allege that he staged the crime scene to resemble a drive-by shooting involving Christopher Thomas Jr. and Anthony Williams, who were both killed.
The bond hearing took place on April 30, 2026. The judge did not issue a ruling from the bench and will release a written order later. Melly’s defense team arranged for him to live under supervision if released on bond.
Melly turned 27 on May 1, 2026, while still in Broward County Jail. His family provided civilian clothing for him to wear during the hearing. Audrey Gross, a family member, expressed her sadness at their inability to communicate during his detention.
Prosecutors previously filed additional charges related to witness tampering, but those charges were later dropped. The defense emphasized the extraordinary length of their client’s pretrial detention and the support structure established by his family.
Melly has adapted to his current situation, stating that he now has access to an open dorm unit with amenities like a television and outdoor exercise three times a week. His music career has effectively been frozen since his arrest.
Officials will review the evidence presented during this bond hearing before making their decision. The next ruling is expected on May 12.
