Reggae superstar Buju Banton could find himself at his home by this coming week according to the latest developing in his probation hearing.
Federal Judge Tim Moody rejected the prosecution appeal, clearing the way for the artist release.
Last week U.S. Magistrate Anthony E. Porcelli approved the artist bail conditions, however, the prosection filed an appeal to have Banton stay behind bars.
Buju Banton lawyer David Markus said he is hoping his client will sleep in his own bed this coming week.
“We are hopeful he will be able to sleep in his own bed by the end of next week. The next step is posting the bond. Then we will address the immigration issues.”
Immigration authorities have placed a detainer on the singer, so if he is released from jail in the criminal case, an immigration judge will then determine whether to release him.
Last week, U.S. Magistrate Anthony Porcelli ruled that Banton could be released under stringent conditions. However, he stayed his ruling to allow the prosecution to appeal to U.S. District Judge James Moody.
Moody denied the appeal without comment.
New bail conditions set.
Under the terms of Banton’s bond, he must post $300,000 worth of equity in the South Florida home of his friend reggae star Stephen Marley, son of icon Bob Marley. Banton must also hire a private security detail to guard him so he doesn’t flee.
Banton was required to sign an extradition waiver, ensuring his return if he flees the country, and will have to wear an electronic monitoring device.
The prosecution alleges Banton is a drug trafficker who tried to enter into a deal with an informant to finance the purchase and sale of cocaine.
The defense maintains the singer was set up by the informant.
Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, has been behind bars since his arrest in December last year on federal drug trafficking charges. A jury deadlocked in September resulted in a mistrial.
His new trial is set ti begin in February of next year.
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