Defense lawyers representing Yak Gotti, co-defendant in the Young Thug racketeering conspiracy trial, have filed an emergency petition with Georgia’s Supreme Court, seeking the removal of Fulton County Chief Judge Ural Glanville from the high-profile case. The 26-page petition alleges “judicial misconduct” and a violation of Yak Gotti’s constitutional right to a fair trial, citing a secret meeting between Judge Glanville, prosecutors, and key witness Kenneth Copeland, which was not disclosed to the defense.
The petition claims that the secret meeting, held on June 10, was an attempt to coerce Copeland into testifying by threatening him with indefinite incarceration. Copeland, who had been sworn in for live testimony on June 7, was held in contempt by Judge Glanville when he refused to answer questions after signing an immunity deal. Defense lawyers argue that they have a right to the full transcript of the meeting, as it may contain information that could undermine Copeland’s credibility during cross-examination.
Copeland plays a crucial role in the case as he had access to an Infiniti sedan allegedly rented by Young Thug, which was later linked to the 2015 murder of Donovan “Nut” Thomas Jr. outside an Atlanta barbershop. Yak Gotti, also known as Deamonte Kendrick, is specifically charged with Thomas’ murder alongside co-defendant Shannon Stillwell. Young Thug, whose legal name is Jeffery Williams, faces an overarching count of racketeering conspiracy, with Thomas’ murder considered an overt act in furtherance of the alleged gang conspiracy.
The defense lawyers’ petition further alleges that Judge Glanville informed Copeland during the secret meeting that he could be kept incarcerated until all 27 remaining defendants charged under the indictment conclude their trials, not just the six currently facing jurors. They claim that Copeland stated he would lie on the stand if forced to return and testify that he killed Thomas. The defense argues that these statements are crucial evidence that they have a right to use in their defense.
The defense lawyers also criticize Judge Glanville for finding Young Thug’s defense lawyer, Brian Steel, in contempt when he confronted the court about the secret meeting and refused to disclose his source of information. They accuse Judge Glanville of making every effort to keep the proceeding secret and inaccessible to the defense.
Judge Glanville has previously denied three separate recusal motions, including one from Yak Gotti’s lawyers and one from Brian Steel. The trial, which has been frequently delayed, is expected to continue through the end of the year, with prosecutors having already called over 70 witnesses. The charges against Young Thug, Yak Gotti, and four others are vehemently denied by the defendants, with Steel describing the case against his client as “unconscionable and unconstitutional.”
2 Responses
“Justice is the constant and perpetual will to allot to every man his due.” – Domitus Ulpianus
This quote resonates with the post because it emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in legal proceedings. The defense lawyers filing an emergency petition to seek the removal of Judge Ural Glanville suggests that they believe he may not be impartial or fair in handling the case. This quote reminds us that justice should be the guiding principle in any legal system, ensuring that every individual receives their
As a blog commenter, I would like to recommend hiring a reputable and experienced criminal defense attorney for Yak Gotti’s legal representation. It is crucial to have a lawyer who specializes in racketeering conspiracy cases and has a strong track record of success. They will be able to navigate the complexities of the legal system and provide the best defense possible. It is important to thoroughly research and consult with different attorneys to find the right fit for the case.