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March 28, 2008
Remy Ma Shooting Victim and Attorney Available to Comment on Jury Verdict
Makeda Barnes-Joseph and her attorney, Lauren P. Raysor are available to speak with members of the media following the guilty verdict of Rap Artist Remy Ma.
The trial began on March 10. Following one and one half days of deliberation, a New York County jury returned a guilty verdict yesterday in the People v. Remy Smith, aka Remy Ma.
The verdict stems from a July 14th shooting where victim Makeda Barnes-Joseph was shot in the abdomen in an unprovoked act of violence. A grand jury indicted Ms. Ma with several counts, including Assault 1st Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The top charge carries a penalty of up to 25 years in state prison. Ms. Ma was taken into custody and will be sentenced on April 23rd.
Following the shooting, Ms. Joseph was hospitalized for several weeks with life-threatening injuries. She underwent three surgeries and has been unable to work.
"Justice has been served. This process has been draining upon my client. From the beginning, the defense has tried to portray Ms. Ma as the victim. The jury saw through it and has sent a message to those in the recording industry who do not feel they should abide by the same rules as the rest of us. It is time to put an end to this senseless cycle of violence that is glorified by Hip-Hop marketing," said Lauren P. Raysor.
"I am relieved this ordeal is beginning to come to an end. I was the victim of a senseless violent crime. This was a tragedy for both families. Ms. Ma accused me of taking her money. I didn't. The truth came out during the trial. After I was shot, she searched my bag, saw that I didn't take her money, and still did nothing to help me," said Makeda Barnes-Joseph.
"I thank my family and my supporters for all of their support and well wishes during the past eight months. I thank the district attorney's office and the jury for their service."
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