Kahira Jones, one of the men linked to the high-profile Vybz Kartel murder case, was released from prison this morning after spending nearly 15 years behind bars.
Jones, who was first taken into custody in 2011, was among four men convicted in 2014 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, alongside dancehall artistes Vybz Kartel, Shawn Storm, and Andre St John. While the other three men were freed in July 2024 following the quashing of their convictions by the UK-based Privy Council, Jones remained incarcerated due to separate firearm-related convictions.
In 2019, Jones was sentenced to 18 years in prison for wounding with intent, alongside consecutive eight-year sentences for illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, which were ordered to run simultaneously with the 18-year term. His incarceration stemmed from a 2009 incident in Waterford, Portmore, St Catherine, where he shot a man.
Jones’ legal ordeal has been marked not only by his imprisonment but also by significant personal and financial sacrifices. While fighting his murder conviction, he disclosed in court in 2024 that he had been deprived of the opportunity for intimacy and to start a family. He also revealed that he has racked up nearly $70 million in debt trying to clear his name.
Attorney-at-law Iqbal Cheverria, representing Jones during hearings at the Court of Appeal in 2024, highlighted that his client had been taken into custody at age 27 and had spent years navigating a complex criminal process. Cheverria pointed to inconsistencies in the evidence against Jones, noting the absence of forensic proof linking him to the crime scene. He also argued that allowing the prosecution a second opportunity to present fresh evidence would be unfair.
“Had it not been for the mercy of God and the kind help of one of the appellants, I would not have been able to have my appeal heard before the Privy Council,” Jones said in an affidavit, as read in court by Cheverria.
Jones’ release today marks the end of nearly 15 years behind bars, closing a chapter of legal battles and personal hardship that began with his involvement in one of Jamaica’s most notorious criminal cases.
