Dancehall superstar Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer walked out of the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre on Wednesday evening, after nearly 13 years behind bars. In his first words to the public, Palmer described his imprisonment as “hell” and urged the youth to “stay outta crime.” The scene outside the prison was one of pandemonium, with scores of screaming fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the celebrated entertainer. Despite the chaos, Palmer was swiftly whisked away in a white limousine, offering no further comments.
In 2014, Palmer was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 35 years for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, alongside co-accused Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John. However, the London-based Privy Counsel overturned their convictions on March 14, citing jury misconduct. The case was sent back to the Court of Appeal in Jamaica to decide whether to retry the men or release them. On Wednesday, the Court of Appeal, led by recently appointed president Marva McDonald Bishop, ruled in favour of their release, citing factors including lack of evidence and the psychological and emotional toll on Palmer.
The legal team representing the four men, including Isat Buchanan, John Clarke, Alessandra Labeach, and Iqbal Cheverria, expressed their elation at the ruling. Buchanan emphasized the importance of the Constitution and the need for reform in the justice system, highlighting the significance of the court’s decision. Clarke commended the Court of Appeal for their diligent work, noting the extensive review of nearly 10 volumes of case material. He also stressed the need for systemic changes to prevent similar injustices in the future.
The aftermath of this landmark ruling remains uncertain, with the legal team yet to decide if they will pursue damages against the state. Notably, co-accused Kahira Jones remains incarcerated, serving an 18-year sentence for an unrelated wounding with intent conviction from 2009. As Palmer begins to rebuild his life, his call for youth to avoid crime resonates powerfully, underscoring the profound impact of his experiences behind bars.
