News Summary
The trial of Hakeem Robinson and Leroy Whitaker progresses in Jacksonville, with closing statements expected soon. Both men face first-degree murder charges in the death of Charles McCormick, linked to rap rivalry. Key testimonies from witnesses and evidence have emerged, but defense challenges credibility and evidence sufficiency.
Jacksonville, Florida
The trial for Hakeem Robinson, known as Ksoo, and Leroy Whitaker continues to unfold in Jacksonville, with the sixth day of proceedings occurring this Wednesday. The judge indicated that closing statements are anticipated in the afternoon. Both defendants face serious charges related to the murder of 23-year-old Charles McCormick, who was shot on January 15, 2020, at a shopping center on Merrill Road.
Robinson, 26, and Whitaker, 24, are charged with first-degree murder, with separate juries hearing their cases. Prosecutors have labeled the murder as “personal,” pointing to a diss track created by McCormick that reportedly referenced Robinson’s late brother, Willie Addison, as a motive for the violence.
Key Testimonies and Evidence
Significant testimonies have emerged during the trial. Notable among them was Sergeant Christopher Smith from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, who remarked that Robinson appeared much larger than he had imagined based on earlier descriptions. This testimony could play a crucial role in establishing the identity of the shooter.
Additionally, Hakeem Robinson’s father, Abdul Robinson Sr., who has already pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact, provided critical testimony. His plea deal grants him a lighter sentence in exchange for cooperation. Dominique Barner, another essential witness and confessed accomplice to the murder, also testified under a plea agreement.
Both Robinson Sr. and Barner’s testimonies are pivotal, but the defense has raised questions about Barner’s credibility, suggesting that he might be a “paid assassin” involved in multiple murders, alleging his testimony is motivated by self-interest.
Defense Strategy and Counterarguments
The defense aimed to create reasonable doubt by highlighting discrepancies between Robinson’s physical appearance and descriptions of the shooter from dashcam footage. They have argued that the physical attributes of the shooter do not align with Robinson’s stature. In contrast, the prosecution presented social media evidence intended to substantiate the relationship between Robinson, Whitaker, and the murder.
Key pieces of evidence presented by the prosecution included the rap song “Ksoo Homicide” and an ominous Instagram post featuring McCormick’s photo accompanied by the phrase “bye bye.” These materials were pivotal in establishing a motive and connection to the murder, suggesting McCormick was targeted due to potential rivalries rooted in their rap affiliations.
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution has outlined a narrative indicating the defendants and Barner planned the attack on McCormick. After pursuing him in a vehicle, it is alleged that Robinson exited the car and shot McCormick as he attempted to escape. This version of events is supported by witness testimonies describing the chaotic moments leading up to and following the shooting.
The case has drawn significant attention from the local community, particularly within the rap scene, as it reflects ongoing tensions between different factions within the genre. Robinson Sr.’s testimony also shed light on the gang affiliations of the defendants. Both Robinson and his father are reportedly part of the ATK gang, which has an antagonistic relationship with McCormick’s group, 6Block.
Next Steps in the Trial
The trial continues to capture widespread public interest as the prosecutors and defense team prepare their closing arguments. Whitaker’s attorney has argued that the state lacks sufficient evidence to convict, specifically regarding the involvement of a stolen vehicle in the crime.
No matter the outcome, it appears that the trials of Hakeem Robinson are far from over, as he is also set to face a separate murder charge related to an incident from 2019 following this trial.
The jury’s decisions in these cases will likely have lasting implications in Jacksonville’s music community and beyond, as the trial highlights not only personal vendettas but also the complexities of urban violence linked to cultural expressions in the rap industry.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News: Ksoo Murder Trial Day 6 Livestream
- News4JAX: Testimony Continues in Murder Trial
- First Coast News: Ksoo’s Father Identifies Him as Shooter
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville
- Google Search: Ksoo Murder Trial
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
