O.J. Simpson’s Former Prosecutor Represents Nipsey Hussle’s Alleged Shooter, Enters ‘Not Guilty’ Plea
The alleged shooter of slain Los Angeles rapper Nipsey Hussle has retained O.J. Simpson’s former prosecutor as an attorney.
Eric Ronald Holder, who was charged with killing Nipsey Hussle, was ordered held on $5million bail after pleading not guilty Thursday (Apr. 4) to murder and attempted murder charges, reports the LA Times.
Holder’s attorney, Christopher Darden didn’t dispute the bail amount. He also declined comment after the hearing.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office stated that Holder, 29, was charged with one count of murder, two counts of attempted murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, reports the Hollywood Reporter.
Nipsey Hussle was fatally shot six times on Sunday (Mar. 31) outside of his apparel store Marathon Clothing in South Los Angeles. Two others were wounded during the shooting.
Before the hearing, Darden argued against allowing the press to shoot footage in the courtroom because he believes that the prosecution hasn’t established with certainty that they have the right person. He doesn’t want the publicizing of Holder’s image to interfere with the 29-year-old receiving a fair trial.
“The issue of identity is still in question,” Darden said.
Deputy District Attorney John McKinney argued that Holder’s identity wouldn’t be an issue because his photo had already been widely spread during the search for him.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Teresa Sullivan ruled that the media cameras could remain.
If Holder is convicted, he faces life in prison.
Darden gained nationwide fame as part of the prosecution team at O.J. Simpson’s 1995 murder trial.
Glennisha Morgan is a Detroit-bred multimedia journalist and writer. She writes about intersectionality, hip-hop, pop culture, queer issues, race, feminism, and her truth. Follow her on Twitter @GlennishaMorgan
