Is YNW Melly Still in Jail?
Last reviewed: June 2026. Details can change — check current news for the latest.
Yes — he is in custody awaiting a retrial. Rapper YNW Melly (Jamell Demons) is charged with two counts of first-degree murder over the 2018 deaths of two friends in Florida. His 2023 trial ended in a mistrial when the jury deadlocked. As of 2026 he remains jailed awaiting a retrial now set for January 2027; bond has repeatedly been denied, and prosecutors are again seeking the death penalty. He has not been convicted — he is presumed innocent pending retrial.
The case so far
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Two friends killed; Demons later charged with first-degree murder |
| July 2023 | Trial ends in a mistrial (deadlocked jury) |
| 2026 | Bond denied again; retrial scheduled |
| Jan 2027 | Retrial set |
Important
- He has not been convicted — the charges are alleged and he is presumed innocent.
- The 2023 mistrial means a jury did not reach a verdict; a retrial is pending.
Frequently asked questions
Has YNW Melly been convicted?
No — his first trial ended in a mistrial and he awaits retrial (set for January 2027).
Is he in jail?
Yes — he remains in custody; bond has been denied.
Related
This is a US case. For how the UK system works see UK prison sentences explained.
Sources: Rolling Stone, Local10 Miami (2026).
