Bronx, NY — The legal team for rapper Tione Jayden Merritt, known professionally as Lil Tjay, is seeking to correct what they say are false reports linking the artist to a federal gang indictment. The 23-year-old Bronx native was recently rumored to be implicated in charges against a group identified as the Slattery Gang, or “Slaughtery” Gang, which has been tied to a series of violent crimes, including 14 shootings.
The Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark, alongside NYC Police Commissioner Edward A. Caban, last month announced the indictment of several gang members. However, Lil Tjay’s name was absent from the list of those charged, raising questions about the accuracy of the reports alleging his involvement.
Tjay’s attorney, Dawn Florio, issued a statement addressing the incorrect information disseminated by certain news outlets. “Despite recent reports, we want to clarify that my client, rap artist Tione Jayden Merritt, has not been indicted,” the statement read. “We are aware of several news outlets that have shared false information regarding his legal matter, and we wish to address these inaccuracies.”
The call from Merritt’s counsel underscores the broader issue of misinformation in media reporting, with Florio urging diligence and caution. “We urge all media outlets to exercise caution and ensure proper due diligence before publishing speculative or unfounded claims. Reporting inaccurate information not only damages reputations, but misleads the public,” Florio added.
The allegations against the so-called “Slaughtery” gang are severe. Authorities claim the group’s 176-count indictment encompasses a slew of violent acts, including shootings, carjackings, and even a slashing outside a courthouse. These incidents reportedly took place across various Bronx neighborhoods, such as Fordham Heights and Kingsbridge, spanning from 2020 to 2024.
According to law enforcement, the gang used social media platforms as a tool to promote their violent activities and boast about their escapades. The widespread nature and viciousness of the crimes have prompted a vigorous response from local authorities.
So far, eleven of the indicted individuals have been arraigned, with additional members still awaiting their day in court. The charges they face include conspiracy, attempted murder, and weapons possession, highlighting the serious threat posed by the gang to community safety.
As the legal processes unfold, the case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by gang violence and its impact on communities in urban areas like the Bronx. It also underscores the importance of accuracy in media reporting, especially when the reputations and legal standings of individuals are at stake. The clarification from Lil Tjay’s attorney seeks not only to clear his client’s name but also to advocate for responsible journalism practices moving forward.