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This same Tuesday, August 19, the trial of Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvani Sierra Hernández - known as Chocolate MC - is expected to start for the case in which he is accused of threatening to kill and planning the murder of Damian Valdez Galloso, the main suspect in the homicide of the urban singer El Taiger.
During the preliminary hearing held on Monday, Judge Hirsch ordered that the witnesses' depositions take place that same day in order to start the trial as soon as possible.
The magistrate also warned the defense that he would not allow any further delays, making it clear that his court would not tolerate cases like this dragging on for months or years without resolution.
The accusations: Threats and conspiracy to commit murder
According to court documents, Chocolate MC is facing two serious charges:
-Written threats to kill or cause bodily harm, under statute 836.10(2)(a) of the state of Florida.
-Request first-degree murder, according to statutes 782.04(1) and 777.04(2), classified as a first-degree felony.
The Miami-Dade County Prosecutor's Office claims that between December 1 and December 31, 2024, the reggaeton artist used social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube to make direct threats against Damian Valdez Galloso, who is accused of the death of his colleague, José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, artistically known as El Taiger.
According to the accusation, Chocolate MC allegedly attempted to persuade inmates in the county prison system to commit a premeditated murder against Damian Valdez Galloso.
If convicted, he would face a possible sentence of life in prison.
Progress of the process and judicial details
The case is identified by the number F25007387.
The accusation was signed on May 27 by Assistant Prosecutor Kim Rivera and validated by judicial officer Elizabeth Frade. It indicates that the artist used electronic means to plan a crime, which aggravates the charges.
So far, it has not been confirmed whether Chocolate MC has formal legal representation in this process, although Judge Hirsch has already made it clear that he will not allow any more excuses from his defense.
Current situation: Detained for another case
Pending the trial in the case of Damian Valdez Galloso, Chocolate MC remains imprisoned for another independent charge.
He was arrested on June 2, accused of kidnapping and threatening a fan with a firearm, who was held for several hours.
Although it was confirmed that the weapon was fake, the charges filed include kidnapping and armed robbery.
In the hearing on June 5, Judge Mindy S. Glazer determined that he would not be granted bail, as she found that he violated the conditions of a previous release.
During the hearing, the reggaeton artist denied being mentally unstable.
"Someone in the street is paying to have me killed just like they killed El Taiger," he said, even claiming that his lawyer was trying to portray him as "crazy."
This process adds to an already extensive legal history: it is the fifth case opened in Florida and his ninth arrest in eight years.
A controversial figure of Cuban reguetón
Chocolate MC, 34 years old, has been an influential yet controversial figure in the Cuban urban genre.
His career has been marked by musical success, but also by repeated conflicts with the law: domestic violence, drug possession, public disorder, and now an accusation of conspiracy to commit murder.
The trial for the threats and the alleged incitement to murder Damian Valdes Galloso could become the most decisive turning point in the career and legal life of the reggaeton artist.
Frequently Asked Questions about the trial of Chocolate MC for threats and its connection to the case of El Taiger
When does the trial of Chocolate MC for threats against Damián Valdez Galloso begin?
The trial of the Cuban reggaeton artist Chocolate MC, accused of threatening Damián Valdez Galloso with death, is expected to begin on Tuesday, August 19. The preliminary hearing has already taken place, and the judge has ruled that no further delays will be tolerated.
What charges does Chocolate MC face?
Chocolate MC is facing two serious charges: written threats of murder or causing bodily harm and solicitation of first-degree murder. These charges are based on threats made through social media between December 2024 and January 2025.
What is the possible sentence for Chocolate MC if he is found guilty?
In the event of being found guilty of charges of threats and conspiracy to commit murder, Chocolate MC could face a life sentence. The seriousness of the charges and the nature of the threats exacerbate his legal situation.
What is Chocolate MC's connection to the El Taiger case?
Chocolate MC is linked to the case of El Taiger because his threats were directed at Damián Valdez Galloso, the main suspect in the murder of El Taiger. The death of El Taiger was an event that shocked the community and has influenced the accusations against Chocolate MC.
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