Judge Rules Fredo Bang Cannot Be Forced to Testify in YNW Melly Case as Rapper Invokes Rights During Pre-Trial Conference
A Broward County judge has ruled that rapper Fredo Bang, born Fredrick Givens, cannot be compelled by prosecutors to answer questions relating to the YNW Melly double-murder case, after the Louisiana musician invoked both attorney-client privilege and his constitutional right against self-incrimination.
Court documents obtained on June 15 show that Judge Andrew L. Siegel denied the State of Florida’s motion to force Givens to provide testimony during a pre-trial conference connected to the upcoming retrial of Florida rapper YNW Melly, whose legal name is Jamell Demons.
The decision was issued on June 6, marking a significant moment in the long-running and highly publicized case surrounding the October 2018 deaths of Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas, 20, and Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams, 21.
Prosecutors Sought to Question Fredo Bang on Night of the Murders
According to filings, prosecutors had sought to ask Givens a series of questions about the night of the killings, alleging that YNW Melly contacted him shortly after the fatal shootings. State attorneys hoped to inquire about:
Where Givens was at the time of the incident
Whether Melly asked Givens to pick him up
Whether Givens did, in fact, pick up Melly
The identities and phone numbers of individuals present at Givens’ home
Any personal knowledge of the events of October 26, 2018
The State even offered Givens immunity from prosecution in Florida in exchange for answering the questions — a strategy typically used when prosecutors believe a witness may fear legal exposure.
Despite the immunity offer, Givens declined to answer specific questions. His attorney argued that responding could potentially expose protected communications or jeopardize Givens under federal law, even if protected from state-level charges.
Court Upholds Bang’s Right to Silence
Givens’ attorney, Davis, who is representing him solely as a witness, issued a statement explaining the legal position taken.
“Mr. Givens has exercised his right to remain silent and the court ultimately granted Mr. Givens’ request,” Davis said. “Mr. Givens does not intend to cooperate with the prosecution of this case, but Mr. Givens will fully comply with the law, both state and federal law.”
Davis emphasized that his client has not been charged with any crime in connection with the case.
He also expressed hope for a fair trial for Melly.
“We do wish Jamell Demons all the best and we are hoping for a fair and impartial outcome in the resolution of his case,” he told XXL.
Background of the Case
YNW Melly, now 25, faces charges that he shot and killed his two close friends and collaborators in October 2018. Prosecutors allege that he conspired with Cortlen “YNW Bortlen” Henry to stage the crime scene as a drive-by shooting.
On the night of the murders, Bortlen drove the bodies of Juvy and Sakchaser to a nearby hospital, telling staff that an unknown vehicle had opened fire on their car.
Investigators later argued that forensic evidence contradicted that account.
Melly was arrested on February 13, 2019, and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. He entered a plea of not guilty in March of that year.
Bortlen was arrested later in Texas and extradited to Florida, where he faces charges related to murder and accessory after the fact.
Both Melly and Bortlen have additionally been named as possible persons of interest in the 2017 fatal shooting of Deputy Gary Chambliss from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, though no charges have resulted from that connection.
A Case Marked by Delays, Publicity, and Legal Complexity
The Melly case has drawn intense national attention over the past several years, fueled by the rapper’s fame, the dramatic nature of the allegations, and multiple court delays.
A previous trial in 2023 ended in a mistrial, with jurors unable to reach a unanimous verdict. Prosecutors are now preparing for a retrial, which has again become a flashpoint for legal debates, witness complications, and high-profile filings — including the motion involving Fredo Bang.
Legal analysts say the judge’s ruling protecting Givens’ right to silence is a reminder that even in high-profile cases, constitutional protections remain firm.
What Happens Next?
The retrial of YNW Melly is expected to resume later this year. Prosecutors continue to pursue testimony, digital evidence, and forensic findings in an effort to strengthen their case, while Melly’s defense maintains his innocence.
Fredo Bang is not expected to play any further role unless subpoenaed again, and his legal team has indicated he will continue to assert his rights if necessary.
For now, the case remains one of the most closely watched trials in the U.S. music world — a tragic story involving rising careers, shattered friendships, and a legal fight far from resolved.
