Following the guilty verdicts handed down by a jury on Tuesday (Feb. 27) in the trial of the 2002 murder of hip-hop luminary Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay, the fallen legend’s son, TJ Mizell, issued a statement to Billboard on Wednesday, extending his appreciation to everyone involved in bringing justice and accountability.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the prosecutors, law enforcement officials and all involved in bringing these individuals to justice. Their unwavering dedication has ensured a measure of accountability for the tragic loss of Jam Master Jay,” says Mizell. “As we pause to reflect, we are reminded of the profound impact and influence Jay had on countless lives. His legacy endures through his music, his spirit and the cherished memories we hold dear. We remain committed to honoring his memory and celebrating the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”
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“To all who have supported us throughout this challenging journey, we offer our heartfelt thanks. Your love, kindness, and steadfast support have been a source of strength during our darkest moments. We ask that you continue to honor Jay’s memory through his music and the positive impact he made on the world,” adds Mizell. “While the pain of our loss will always remain, we find solace in the knowledge that justice has been served. Our family believes in God’s plan and that faith is what helped provide closure for us long ago. We thank all that continue to support Jay’s legacy by honoring his life’s achievements.”
The two men convicted of the murder, Karl Jordan, Jr., 40, and Ronald Washington, 59, each face a minimum of 20 years in prison. They’ll have the option of challenging the verdict with the judge as well as a federal appeals court.
Jay, a renowned member of the legendary rap group Run-DMC, was killed in October 2022 in Queens, NY. His death remained one of hip-hop’s most famous cold cases until 2020, when detectives generated sufficient leads that prompted prosecutors to launch a case against Jordan and Washington.
The three-week trial included more than 30 witnesses who testified against Jordan and Washington, accusing them of murdering the rap pioneer as payback after the DJ cut them out of a cocaine deal.
Following the guilty verdict, U.S. Attorney Breon Peace issued a statement: “More than two decades after they killed Jason Mizell in his recording studio, Jordan and Washington have finally been held accountable for their cold-blooded crime driven by greed and revenge.”
Washington’s attorney, Susan G. Kellman, had a different stance on the matter, as she believed her client wasn’t given the justice he deserved during his trial.
“They made up a motive and they rejected hard facts,” Kellman said to Billboard in a statement. “That they just didn’t give a d–n speaks volumes about where our country is — truth is no longer a consideration — we truly live in a world of ‘alternative facts.’ And that’s not justice.”