Vybz Kartel's Lawyer Clears Up Prison Escape Rumors, "We Have To Be Very Careful"

A day after reggae artist Vybz Kartel made headlines over false rumors claiming he escaped a Jamaican prison, his lawyer has come forward to address the talk and provide an update.


Denying the rumors, attorney Christian Tavares-Finson explained why Kartel couldn't have escaped from prison.

"We were in court with [Vybz Kartel] this morning,so as far as his location and his status he's still in the custody of the police. He did attend court this morning. He was brought to court by the police. As far as if people are concerned with whether or not it's true, or any doubt, I think we can put that to rest. His defense team was in court this morning, and he was also present. ... As always, he's in good spirits. He has full confidence in his defense team, which he chose himself. As far as we're concerned, we will make significant progress as time passes. We're confident that, based on what we have seen, it is going to be very difficult for the prosecution to continue bringing cases against him." (Boomshots)

Tavares-Finson also contemplated the motivation behind the fake gossip.

"Eventually it will be a jury trial. When one considers the population of Jamaica, you have to realize that it is a small jury pool. Any thought of rumor or any story being carried that is not true will prejudice the jury pool. We have to be very careful. At the end of the day, we want him to have a fair trial. It's not about prejudice one way or the other, but about a fail trial. That is what we are seeking as the defense." (Boomshots)

Following yesterday morning's reports, Jamaican authorities quickly dispelled the fabricated story.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Les Green told the Observer early this morning that he had no knowledge of the reported jail break. "I know nothing about that. If that had taken place I would would certainly have known," Green said. Police at Denham Town Police station, the closest police station to the remand centre were also unaware of the reports as was the Constabulary Communication Network who also claimed ignorance of any jail break. (Jamaica Observer)

Initial reporting had Kartel escaping a prison with other inmates.

Dancehall star Vybz Kartel (born, Adidja Palmer) has been in police custody in his hometown Jamaica since October 1, while he awaits trail for two murder cases, but new reports say that the singer has escaped from prison. Kartel reportedly started a riot at the Horizon Adult Remand Centre in Jamaica early on Wednesday morning (November 30), and managed to escape with seven other inmates after holding officers at gunpoint. (MTV)