Internationally acclaimed reggae artist Buju Banton, whose real name is Mark Myrie, recently faced another road block in his attempts to generate funds while on bail pending his retrial for charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and aiding and abetting two others in possessing a firearm during the course of distribution. Banton was granted bail with strict conditions on November 10th, 2010 after a 12-member jury failed to reach a unanimous decision about his guilt or innocence in September 2010.
Banton’s lawyer submitted a request to have the Jamaican born reggae artist perform a concert in Miami on Boxing Day, December 26th, 2010. His lawyer argued that the reggae artist is under financial strain, having to pay US$20,000 a month to a 24-hour security detail that was a part of his bail conditions, as well as the cost of preparing for his retrial next February. However, US Magistrate Judge Anthony Porcelli said the singer’s financial pressures do not outweigh the risk that he might flee, and refused the request.
As part of his bail conditions, Banton will have to wear a tracking device and will be under 24-hour surveillance from a security company. He will only be allowed to visit a doctor and his lawyer. He has also signed an extradition waiver and will not be allowed to leave the Middle District of the Southern District of Florida until his trial begins in February 2011.
If found guilty and convicted, Banton faces life imprisonment and up to US$4 million in fines.
The question is;
Is Buju being treated fairly although not proven guilty?
Is he being treated in a certain way because he is a foreigner?
Is he being treated differently because of his Rastafarian life, with the lack of knowledge and respect to Rasta?
Is he being treated differently because he is a reggae artist who is in trouble? There are many stereotypes about hip-hop and reggae, and I am sure you can agree with me.
What if he was a well known business man in trouble, and had to continue his business until proven guilty?
What if he was a great author that had to get some books published, signed and sold at an opening?
What if he was a sportsman with much respect?
What prevents him from performing to generate funds to pay?
I am not a judge, neither am I a lawyer. I am a regular person curious to know.
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