YNW Melly Seeks Release From Jail Ahead of Retrial, Citing Harsh Conditions

Attorneys for rapper YNW Melly, born Jamell Demons, are petitioning for his release from prison before his double murder retrial. Demons, who has been incarcerated since 2019 for the 2018 shooting deaths of two friends, was granted a mistrial in his 2023 trial. His legal team now argues that his conditions of confinement are unconstitutional.

In a recent lawsuit, Demons’ attorneys claim that his solitary confinement violates his rights, describing the conditions as “cruel and unusual.” The petition asserts that he has been denied phone calls and visits with family members, including his mother, for over three years.

A judge has ordered the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) to explain why Demons shouldn’t be released, with a response due by December 16. While BSO typically refrains from commenting on pending litigation, they confirmed Demons’ placement in administrative segregation for safety reasons.

Demons’ second trial is scheduled for September 2025, but his legal team is pushing for pretrial release based on the alleged inhumane treatment he’s endured in custody.