After a jury sent a second note saying they were unable to reach a verdict, a judge declared a mistrial for Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton on Monday, Sept. 27.
Banton, who was accused of conspiring to buy cocaine from an undercover police officer in 2009, gained local notoriety when he brought his concert series to St. Petersburg and Tampa, only to be cancelled at several venues when his anti-gay stances were publicized. One of his most popular songs advocates the murder of gay men, and has been linked to gay murders in his native country.
U.S. District Judge James Moody declared his ruling after the 12-member jury deliberated for four days following a four-day trial.
Banton’s attorney has asked Moody to release Banton on bond. He has been held without bond since his December arrest in South Florida.
According to reports, Banton had been charged with conspiracy to possess and distribute cocaine and aiding two others in possessing a firearm during the course of cocaine distribution. He faced up to life in prison.
