Nevada judge denies release of ex-gang leader ahead of trial in 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur
A Nevada judge has denied the release of Duane “Keffe D” Davis, a former gang leader, from jail as he awaits trial for the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur. Despite efforts by hip-hop figure Cash “Wack 100” Jones to post a $750,000 bond, the judge was not convinced that the funds were from a legitimate source or that they wouldn’t lead to profits from Davis’s life story.
Judge Carli Kierny stated that she needed more assurance about the bond’s origins and rejected a proposal for house arrest with electronic monitoring. Davis, 61, is currently the only person charged in Shakur’s killing, a case that has garnered significant attention for over two decades.
Prosecutors allege that the shooting was part of a rivalry between East Coast and West Coast gang factions, particularly related to the “gangsta rap” genre. Davis has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, with his trial scheduled for November 4. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
During a recent court hearing, Davis claimed he is not receiving adequate food and medical care in jail, citing his battle with cancer. He expressed desperation, stating, “I’m in a life situation, and I would say anything to save my life.”
Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting that Davis may seek to profit from his story, including a recording of a phone call where Jones discussed plans for a series based on Davis’s life. Although Jones testified that no contract or agreement currently exists, prosecutors argued that any potential profit from retelling the events surrounding Shakur’s murder would be illegal.
As the case continues, Davis remains in custody, and the trial date
approaches.
