YNW Bortlen Accepts Plea Deal in Double Murder Case

Cortlen Malik Henry, known professionally as YNW Bortlen, has accepted a plea deal in connection with the 2018 double murder of fellow YNW collective members Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr. and Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams. The plea deal was finalized just one day before his scheduled trial in September 2025.

Details of the Plea Agreement

Under the terms of the plea deal, Bortlen pleaded no contest to charges including witness tampering, being an accessory to a capital felony, and unlawful use of a communication device. In exchange, prosecutors dropped the two first-degree murder charges and gang-related activity allegations. The plea deal stipulates a 10-year prison sentence, with credit for time already served, followed by six years of probation. Additionally, Bortlen is required to provide a sworn statement detailing his role in the events surrounding the murders. Pitchfork

Implications for YNW Melly

The plea deal does not require Bortlen to testify against his co-defendant, rapper YNW Melly (Jamell Maurice Demons). Melly's trial, which ended in a mistrial in 2023, is set to resume in 2027. Bortlen's statement may, however, be used to support the prosecution's case against Melly. Pitchfork

Public Reaction

The plea deal has garnered significant attention, with many questioning the leniency of the sentence given the severity of the original charges. Some speculate that Bortlen's decision to accept the plea may have been influenced by the desire to avoid a potential life sentence. However, the specifics of the negotiations remain confidential.

For more detailed information, you can read the full article on Pitchfork.