After an orgy of violence and gunfire shattered what was meant to be one of Carnival season’s biggest after-parties several weeks ago, popular podcaster Jaii Frais and music producer Jahvy Ambassador remain at the centre of one of Jamaica’s most closely watched criminal cases.
The pair appeared in the Gun Court on Thursday, where their bail was extended. They are scheduled to return to court on October 28 for a plea and case management hearing.
Jaii Frais, whose real name is Jhaedee Richards, faces charges of wounding with intent, shooting with intent and possession of a prohibited weapon.
Jahvy Ambassador, born Jahvel Morrison, is charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, wounding with intent and using a prohibited weapon to commit a felony.
The charges arise from the April 12 shooting at the Big Wall Carnival after-party at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew, where an evening of celebration descended into chaos.
According to police, a physical altercation erupted among patrons shortly after 9:30 p.m. before escalating into an exchange of gunfire.
Three people were shot during the incident and rushed to hospital.
Investigators said Richards was among those injured. He was treated, released from hospital and immediately taken into police custody. Another victim remained hospitalized following the shooting.
Police also reported recovering two firearms during the investigation, after which Morrison was arrested.
The case has drawn intense public attention because of the prominence of both accused men within Jamaica’s entertainment industry and social media landscape.
Richards is represented by attorneys Isat Buchanan and D’ondre Buchanan, while King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie, along with attorneys Sayeed Bernard and Richard Lynch, appears for Morrison.
With both sides expected to outline their positions when the matter returns to court in October, the case remains one of the most closely followed criminal proceedings arising from this year’s Carnival season.
