French rapper MHD has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for the murder of a 23-year-old man in Paris’ 10th arrondissement in July 2018. The sentencing was handed down after MHD pled not guilty to the crime. He was tried alongside eight co-defendants, three of whom were acquitted. The remaining co-defendants received sentences ranging from 10 to 18 years. The trial lasted for three weeks.
During the trial, witnesses reportedly saw MHD’s car at the scene of the crime. However, MHD’s lawyers argued that he had no involvement in the brawl that led to the victim’s death. They stated that MHD’s presence at the scene and his connection to the car used by the perpetrators remained to be proven. They also emphasized that MHD contacted investigators as soon as he became aware of the car’s involvement and denied any involvement in conflicts between rival gangs.
MHD, known for blending trap music with West African music in his style called “Afro Trap,” has released three studio albums throughout his career. Several other French artists have expressed support for him since his initial arrest in 2019.
