Vybz Kartel Released After 13 Years: Court Rules Against Retrial

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, walked free from the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre on Wednesday evening after spending 13 years behind bars. This follows a ruling by the Jamaican Court of Appeal, which decided against retrying him and his co-accused, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.

The appeal to the UK-based Privy Council had resulted in their convictions being overturned in March 2024 due to juror misconduct. The case was then remitted to Jamaica’s Court of Appeal, which concluded that a retrial was unnecessary.

Entertainer Vybz Kartel is now a free man and back on the streets of Kingston. Moments ago he walked out of the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre and was met with shouts from fans. #AlwaysAhead #JamaicaObserver #OTeam #ONews #Jamaica #DailyObserver #VybzKartel pic.twitter.com/MFwsjY3sAo

— Jamaica Observer (@JamaicaObserver) July 31, 2024

Kartel’s release marks a significant moment for his career and the dancehall community, with fans and supporters celebrating the news. The artist’s girlfriend was present at the prison to greet him upon his release, a moment captured in a widely shared photograph.

As Vybz Kartel rejoins society, the nation reflects on the implications of this high-profile legal journey and the impact on Jamaica’s justice system. The dancehall community eagerly anticipates his return to music, expecting a resurgence in his influential career.

Stay tuned to Vision Newspaper – The Caribbean Update for more on Vybz Kartel’s release from prison.