Chocolate MC Found Guilty by Jury

A jury comprising seven individuals—four men and three women—has found Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvanis Sierra Hernández, known as Chocolate MC, guilty of the charge of "writing or publishing direct threats" against Damián Valdez Galloso.

As reported by journalist Javier Díaz from Univision 23, the Miami prosecution's key piece of evidence was a video in which the musician claims he has enough money to order the assassination of Valdez Galloso "while in jail."

With the verdict now delivered, the case advances to the sentencing phase under Judge Milton Hirsch, who had previously indicated that the punishment could be as severe as life imprisonment.

Context of the Threat

Damián Valdez Galloso has been accused of the death of Cuban musician "El Tiger," a situation that, according to the prosecution, heightens the severity of the threat made by Chocolate MC in the video shown to the jury.

Defense Strategy and Background

The family of the reggaeton artist had submitted a video in which Chocolate MC himself admits to drug use since the age of 16, a piece of evidence they introduced during the ongoing trial. The footage, shared by journalist Javier Díaz, was intended by his family to illustrate the artist's history of substance abuse.

In the video, Chocolate MC states, "I've been using crack since I was 16," and mentions that he was admitted to Havana’s Psychiatric Hospital (Mazorra), specifically in the "wall room," where he notes "Maradona was also treated," thus providing a background of psychiatric care before his current legal situation. His family emphasizes these details to highlight the timeline and persistence of his addiction.

Trial Proceedings and Judicial Warnings

As the trial commenced on Monday in Miami, it drew significant media attention and was marked by a stern warning from the presiding judge about the death threats against Valdez. During the initial proceedings, Judge Milton Hirsch cautioned Chocolate MC that if found guilty, he might face a life sentence, as reported by local media.

Eyewitnesses noted that the judge directly asked Chocolate MC if he understood the seriousness of his legal predicament. With a serious demeanor, Chocolate MC affirmed his understanding.