COVID-19’s Latest Threat? Releasing Violent Offenders like 6ix9ine
Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine could be headed for freedom sooner than expected. | Source: Marco BERTORELLO / AFP
- Rapper 6ix9ine could be released from prison at any time.
- While he does have asthma, he’s also a violent offender.
- His release could lead to the release of more violent offenders and more panic in the community.
As if COVID-19 hasn’t done enough to put our lives in danger, it could be leading to the early release of violent offenders like Tekashi 6ix9ine.
6ix9ine’s attorney, Lance Lazzaro, told Rolling Stone that the rapper could be released as soon as this afternoon.
Dawn Floria, another attorney for the rapper, said:
It’s a foregone conclusion, he’s getting released. He could do it today, or later, we’re just waiting on the judge’s decision.
6ix9ine’s Potential Release Makes Him Safer, and Us Less So
6ix9ine’s release would be because he has asthma, making him vulnerable to COVID-19. While his release would be understandable from that aspect, don’t forget that he’s a violent offender.
6ix9ine, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, pled guilty to racketeering in 2019. But he was originally charged with much more. The rapper initially faced life in prison with charges including assault with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit murder. He was a member of a violent gang called Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods, also known as “TreyWay.”
He only has four months left on his two-year sentence, but he’s only serving two years because he took a plea deal for testifying against fellow gang members. Essentially, 6ix9ine’s violent acts would’ve landed him in prison much longer if he didn’t tell on his friends.
What a 6ix9ine Release Could Mean
While a 6ix9ine release would be somewhat understandable given his condition, it could pave the way for the release of more violent offenders.
California is set to release 3500 prisoners in response to the coronavirus pandemic. These prisoners are non-violent and were set to be released in the next 60 days. But, 6ix9ine is neither of these.
The fear in the community could be even more damaging. In California and many other parts of the U.S., fearful shoppers are flocking to gun stores. People have been forming lines outside of these shops to stock up on weapons and ammunition.
One gun-shopper told USA Today:
There’s so much uncertainty and paranoia but you’ve got to protect your own.
These people are only going to feel the need for more protection as more inmates are set free.
Other Famous Prisoners Seek Release
You might not feel the need to hide your kids from 6ix9ine. But you probably would feel that need if every celebrity prisoner got their wish.
Bill Cosby’s lawyers are trying to get him freed from prison. R. Kelly’s lead lawyer Steve Greenberg is also trying to get his client released. He recently said:
A jail is the antithesis of a safe environment. It is closely confined and heavily populated, largely by those who have little respect for others.
R. Kelly is charged with child pornography, kidnapping, and more. He’s done nothing but create unsafe environments for people. Why should he get a pass?
While releasing prisoners does make sense in some cases, let’s hope our states continue to make these choices using common sense.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of CCN.com.
