A judge has decided to suspend Lance Lazzaro, attorney to incarcerated American rapper, Tekashi 6ix9ine, from his federal racketeering case.
The decision was made after it was revealed during Tuesday’s pre-trial conference that Lazzaro had represented co-defendants, Faheem “Crippy” Walter and Kifano “Shotti” Jordan, prior to representing 6ix9ine.
READ: There’ll Be No Conjugal Action For Imprisoned Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine
In an update provided after the conference, East Coast attorney Mohammed Gangat, in a video revealed that the controversial rapper’s lawyers also didn’t apply for the $1.5 million bail package previously discussed.
“The news is pretty much altogether bad,” explained Gangat. “First off, they didn’t make the bail application. Everyone was expecting to apply to get bail, but they didn’t do it. Strategic decision by the defence. We don’t know exactly why they didn’t do it, but they didn’t do it. Remains to be seen whether it will happen in the future. But for now, they’re not trying to get him out on bail.
“Two, it was discovered that his current attorney has represented other defendants in the case. This could be a big problem in criminal law. The judge basically said that he’s upset that he didn’t already get told this and now, the judge is going to have a hearing on whether the fact that this lawyer represented multiple defendants means that this lawyer cannot represent 6ix9ine, that 6ix9ine has to get a whole new lawyer.”
XXL reports that Judge Paul A. Engelmayer may decide to ban Lazzaro from representing 6ix9ine unless he sends detailed letters detailing his previous dealings with Kifano and Walter. If they aren’t submitted by January 28, or if it’s discovered there’s a conflict of interest, Lazzaro could be permanently removed. However, 6ix9ine’s other lawyer, Dawn Florio will retain her current role.
The embattled rapper is facing six charges including counts of racketeering conspiracy and armed robbery. He could get life in prison sentence if convicted on all charges.
6ix9ine’s next pre-trial conference is scheduled for February 27, while his trial date is set for September 4.