Embattled reggae star Buju Banton was yesterday given the knod to take up his bail offer by a Federal Judge in Tampa Florida.
U.S. Magistrate Anthony E. Porcelli yesterday ruled in favor of Banton whose real name is Mark Myrie when the case was heard in the Sam M Gibbons federal court in Florida.
Porcelli approved the security outfit, as well as, the a house reggae star Stephen Marley put up as security for the artist bail bonds. That didn’t go down well with the prosecution.
Porcelli delayed Banton’s release for five business days to allow Assistant U.S. Attorney James Preston to appeal to U.S. District Judge James Moody.
But even if Moody rules in the defense’s favor, Banton lawyers would then have to persuade an immigration judge to avoid deportation, before his release.
Porcelli said, “all of his efforts may be for nothing in the end.”
In a statement Buju attorney David Oscar Markus said, “the government’s dogged attempt to keep Buju behind bars is disheartening.”
Porcelli also ordered Banton to sign a waiver of extradition to allow authorities to get him back in the event he flees the country.
Last month Buju Banton trial ended in a jury deadlock, resulting in a mistrial. A new trial is set to begin in December.
If convicted Banton could face up to life imprisonment and a fine of up to US$ 4 million.
The question now is will Gargamel be release on bond before December?… comments below
(c) 2010 Urban Islandz. All Rights Reserve
