PnB Rock‘s murder suspects were both found guilty on all counts last month, and now they have been handed down their respective sentences.
On Monday (September 23), Freddie Lee Trone was sentenced to 31 years to life for his role in the 2022 shooting death, according to a report from Deadline. The 42-year-old is the father of the 17-year-old alleged shooter – who is currently being deemed unfit for trial – and acted as the boy’s getaway driver. He also ordered the hit.
Trone conspired moments ahead of the murder with fellow suspect Tremont Jones, who has received a 12-year prison sentence.
Trone was found guilty of felony murder, two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy during court proceedings in August, while Jones was found guilty of two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy.
In a statement to Rolling Stone following the verdict, PnB Rock’s mother Deanna Allen said: “I’m elated. I wanted to jump up and scream, ‘Hallelujah.’ I’m so happy it was quick. We got justice for Rakim. I feel better knowing they’ll be in jail for a long time.”
Trone’s lawyer argued there was no proof his client was at the crime scene, but the jury’s foreperson, Edwin Lovo, noted that surveillance video showed differently.
“We could clearly see it was him,” Lovo said.
It was also noted that the initial theory the rapper’s girlfriend Stephanie Sibounheuang’s social media post placing her at Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles was what led to Rock’s murder was not the case.
“In terms of timing, it just wasn’t plausible,” Lovo said.
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Nicki Minaj was among those who said it was poor judgment from Rock’s girlfriend to share their location online ahead of the shooting.
“After Pop Smoke there’s no way we as rappers or our loved ones are still posting locations to our whereabouts. To show waffles & some fried chicken????!” she wrote on her Instagram. “He was such a pleasure to work with. Condolences to his mom & family. This makes me feel so sick. Jesus. #SIP #PnbRock.”
Cardi B stood up for Sibounheuang at the time, however, saying: “I highly doubt nikkas was looking at PMB’s babymom IG. He was in a bad location and people stay outside plotting. It’s very irresponsible and inconsiderate to blame her for something so tragic. We should be sending nothing but love to her and his family at this time.”
PnB Rock‘s murder suspects were both found guilty on all counts last month, and now they have been handed down their respective sentences.
Freddy Lee Trone Sentenced to 31 Years to Life
On Monday (September 23), Freddie Lee Trone was sentenced to 31 years to life for his role in the 2022 shooting death, according to a report from Deadline. The 42-year-old is the father of the 17-year-old alleged shooter – who is currently being deemed unfit for trial – and acted as the boy’s getaway driver. He also ordered the hit.
Conspiracy with Tremont Jones
Trone conspired moments ahead of the murder with fellow suspect Tremont Jones, who has received a 12-year prison sentence.
Guilty Verdicts
Trone was found guilty of felony murder, two counts of robbery, and one count of conspiracy during court proceedings in August, while Jones was found guilty of two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy.
Family’s Reaction
In a statement to Rolling Stone following the verdict, PnB Rock’s mother Deanna Allen said: “I’m elated. I wanted to jump up and scream, ‘Hallelujah.’ I’m so happy it was quick. We got justice for Rakim. I feel better knowing they’ll be in jail for a long time.”
Surveillance Video Evidence
Trone’s lawyer argued there was no proof his client was at the crime scene, but the jury’s foreperson, Edwin Lovo, noted that surveillance video showed differently.
“We could clearly see it was him,” Lovo said.
False Social Media Theory
It was also noted that the initial theory the rapper’s girlfriend Stephanie Sibounheuang’s social media post placing her at Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles was what led to Rock’s murder was not the case.
“In terms of timing, it just wasn’t plausible,” Lovo said.
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Reactions from Nicki Minaj and Cardi B
Nicki Minaj was among those who said it was poor judgment from Rock’s girlfriend to share their location online ahead of the shooting.
“After Pop Smoke there’s no way we as rappers or our loved ones are still posting locations to our whereabouts. To show waffles & some fried chicken????!” she wrote on her Instagram. “He was such a pleasure to work with. Condolences to his mom & family. This makes me feel so sick. Jesus. #SIP #PnbRock.”
Cardi B stood up for Sibounheuang at the time, however, saying: “I highly doubt nikkas was looking at PMB’s babymom IG. He was in a bad location and people stay outside plotting. It’s very irresponsible and inconsiderate to blame her for something so tragic. We should be sending nothing but love to her and his family at this time.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the sentencing of PnB Rock’s murder suspects has brought closure to the family and justice for the victim. The evidence presented in court, including surveillance videos, played a crucial role in the guilty verdicts. It is important to consider the impact of social media posts and exercise caution in sharing personal information online to avoid tragic consequences.
FAQs
Q: What were the charges against Freddy Lee Trone and Tremont Jones?
A: Freddy Lee Trone was found guilty of felony murder, two counts of robbery, and one count of conspiracy, while Tremont Jones was found guilty of two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy.
Q: How did Nicki Minaj and Cardi B react to the situation?
A: Nicki Minaj criticized the poor judgment of PnB Rock’s girlfriend in sharing their location online, while Cardi B defended her, stating that blaming her for the tragedy was irresponsible.
Credit: hiphopdx.com
