YNW Bortlen Accepts Plea Deal in Double Murder Case Linked to YNW Melly

Cortlen “YNW Bortlen” Henry has taken a plea deal in the case tied to the 2018 killings of two fellow rappers. He pleaded no contest to being an accessory after the fact and to two counts in a witness tampering case. In return, prosecutors dropped first-degree murder charges that could have meant life in prison.

The deal was reached on September 9, 2025, in Broward County, Florida. Henry was accused of helping Jamell “YNW Melly” Demons stage the murder scene to look like a drive-by shooting. Two victims, Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams and Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr., were found shot inside a Jeep that Henry had driven to a hospital.

What the Plea Deal Means for YNW Bortlen

Henry, 26, was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He has already served four years in custody. After his release, he must serve six years on probation. According to his attorney, he will not be required to testify against YNW Melly. But he must provide a sworn statement about his role in the case.

Prosecutors said Henry drove the Jeep while Melly opened fire from the back seat. Bullet holes suggested shots came from inside the car, not from outside. Henry then rushed the vehicle to a hospital, claiming it was a drive-by attack. Medical experts confirmed the victims died from shots fired within the Jeep.

Impact on YNW Melly’s Pending Retrial

YNW Melly is still awaiting retrial on two counts of first-degree murder. His first trial ended in a hung jury in 2023. He faces life in prison or the death penalty if convicted. The retrial is scheduled for early 2027, though legal challenges may cause delays.

The plea deal does not compel Henry to testify against Melly. But his sworn statement could still affect the retrial. According to reports, prosecutors believe the killings stemmed from disputes inside the YNW group over money and loyalty.

Ongoing Fallout From the Case

The case has drawn wide attention in the hip-hop world. Henry’s plea closes a major chapter but leaves Melly’s future in doubt. Civil suits are also underway, with the victims’ families seeking damages. Attorney John M. Phillips, representing one of the families, confirmed that Henry’s statement will be requested in those proceedings.

YNW Bortlen has avoided a life sentence, but his cooperation adds new weight to the next steps in YNW Melly’s legal fight.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What charges did YNW Bortlen face?

He was charged with first-degree murder and accessory after the fact. He also faced witness tampering charges. Murder charges were dropped after the plea deal.

Q2: What was the sentence for YNW Bortlen?

He was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Four years are already served. He must serve six years of probation after release.

Q3: How does this affect YNW Melly?

Melly still faces retrial. Henry will not testify against him, but his sworn statement could still matter in court.

Q4: Who were the victims in the case?

The victims were rappers Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams and Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr., both shot in October 2018.

Q5: When is YNW Melly’s retrial?

The retrial is set for early 2027. Legal issues may still delay the start date.