Judge Overturns Conviction in Jam Master Jay Murder Case
A federal judge has overturned the conviction of Karl “Little D” Jordan Jr., who was imprisoned for the murder of hip-hop icon Jason William Mizell, famously known as Jam Master Jay of the legendary group Run-DMC. This significant ruling occurred on Friday, with the judge granting Jordan’s motion for acquittal and conditionally denying a request for a new trial.
Background of the Case
Jordan and Ronald Washington were convicted in February 2024 for the murder that took place in a New York City recording studio in October 2002. Prosecutors initially contended that Mizell was killed as revenge for excluding Jordan and Washington from a drug deal. Jordan is also Mizell’s godson, complicating the allegations against him.
Details of the Murder
On October 30, 2002, Mizell was shot dead during a fatal incident in his Queens studio. The murder shocked the hip-hop community and went unsolved for nearly two decades. Witness testimonies during the trial pointed toward Jordan firing the shot that killed Mizell. One eyewitness identified Jordan’s distinctive neck tattoo, while another claimed to have seen Washington brandishing a gun. Jordan’s defense argued that he was at his girlfriend’s home during the incident.
Court Proceedings and Judge’s Ruling
U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall outlined her reasoning in a detailed 29-page ruling. She noted that while evidence indicated Jordan was involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy surrounding cocaine distribution in Baltimore, there was insufficient proof that he was motivated by revenge to kill Mizell. Hall stated, “The court is not convinced” by the prosecution’s claims.
Key Evidence Presented
- Testimony from eyewitnesses identified Jordan as the shooter.
- Jordan claimed he was at his girlfriend’s home during the murder, supported by witness statements.
- Evidence suggested a broader conspiracy involving drug deals, including Mizell’s connections to cocaine distribution.
Continued Proceedings
Washington’s attempts for acquittal and a new trial were denied based on reasoning that he may have sought retaliation against Mizell after being excluded from the drug deal. Jordan’s co-defendant, Jay Bryant, who has also been implicated, maintains his innocence and is scheduled for trial in May 2026.
Next Steps
The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of New York is currently reviewing the judge’s decision on Jordan’s case. Although Jordan has been acquitted, the legal battles surrounding the murder of Jam Master Jay are far from over.
