Popular podcaster Jaii Frais and music producer Jahvy Ambassador have been granted bail, but their release comes with strict conditions. The two men, who are facing firearm charges, appeared in the Gun Court earlier today, where Justice Natalie Hart Hines approved bail in the sum of $1.5 million each.
As part of the ruling, both are required to hand over their travel documents to the authorities, visit the police station thrice per week, and comply with a daily curfew set between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Many Jamaicans had been anticipating that upon Jaii Frais’ release, he would address the Big Wall shooting on the next episode of his Let’s Be Honest podcast, which is streamed on YouTube. However, those expectations have been dampened, as the court has explicitly barred both men from speaking publicly about the matter.
The restriction forms part of the conditions set by Justice Natalie Hart Hines, who issued a firm warning that the case must not be discussed on any platform while it remains before the court. The matter is scheduled to return to court on July 8.
The shooting incident that landed both men in jail occurred on April 12 during the “Big Wall” carnival after-party held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew. According to police reports, an altercation erupted between patrons at approximately 9:30 p.m. Several shots were fired between two people, which resulted in three people, including Jaii Frais, being shot. All three victims were taken to the hospital for treatment. The podcaster was treated and turned over to the police.
Law enforcement officials also recovered two at the scene of the shooting. One of the firearms reportedly belonged to Jahvy, who was later detained.
Jaii Frais, whose real name is Jhaedee Richards, has been charged with wounding with intent, shooting with intent, and possession of a prohibited weapon. Jahvy Ambassador, legally named Jahvel Morrison, has faced charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, wounding with intent, and using a prohibited weapon to commit a felony.
Both men are represented by legal teams, with attorneys Isat Buchanan and D’ondre Buchanan appearing for Jaii Frais, while King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie, along with attorneys Sayeed Bernard and Richard Lynch, represent Jahvy Ambassador.