Trial Date Set for Cuban Reggaeton Artist Chocolate MC Over Threats Against Damian Valdez Galloso

This Tuesday, August 19, marks the anticipated start of the trial for Cuban reggaeton artist Yosvani Sierra Hernández, better known as Chocolate MC. He faces accusations of issuing death threats and plotting to murder Damian Valdez Galloso, the chief suspect in the homicide of fellow urban musician El Taiger.

During a preliminary hearing held Monday, Judge Hirsch mandated that witness depositions be completed the same day to expedite the trial's commencement. He issued a stern warning to the defense, emphasizing that his court will not tolerate prolonged delays in cases of this nature.

Charges: Threats and Murder Conspiracy

According to court records, Chocolate MC is charged with two serious offenses:

• Making written threats to kill or cause bodily harm under Florida statute 836.10(2)(a).
• Soliciting first-degree murder, as per statutes 782.04(1) and 777.04(2), classified as a first-degree felony.

The Miami-Dade County Prosecutor's Office alleges that between December 1 and December 31, 2024, the reggaeton artist used social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube to directly threaten Damian Valdez Galloso, who is accused of killing his colleague, José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar, known artistically as El Taiger. Additionally, Chocolate MC is alleged to have attempted to persuade inmates in the county's correctional system to carry out a premeditated murder against Valdez Galloso. If convicted, he could face a potential life sentence.

Legal Proceedings and Judicial Details

The case is filed under number F25007387. The indictment, signed by Assistant State Attorney Kim Rivera and validated by judicial officer Elizabeth Frade, claims the artist used electronic means to plan a crime, which exacerbates the charges. There is currently no confirmation of Chocolate MC having formal legal representation in this case, though Judge Hirsch has made it clear that excuses from the defense will not be tolerated.

Current Status: Detained on a Separate Charge

While awaiting trial for the Valdez Galloso case, Chocolate MC remains incarcerated on another unrelated 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 include kidnapping and armed robbery. In a June 5 hearing, Judge Mindy S. Glazer denied bail, citing violations of previous release conditions.

During the proceedings, the reggaeton artist denied mental instability. "Someone in the street is paying to have me killed like they killed El Taiger," he stated, even alleging that his lawyer was attempting to portray him as "crazy." This case adds to a lengthy legal history: it is the fifth open case in Florida and his ninth arrest in eight years.

A Controversial Figure in Cuban Reggaeton

Chocolate MC, aged 34, has been both an influential and contentious figure in the Cuban urban music scene. His career has been marked by musical successes and repeated legal troubles including domestic violence, drug possession, public disorder, and now a conspiracy to murder charge. The trial over the threats and alleged incitement to murder Damian Valdez Galloso could become a pivotal moment in the reggaeton artist's career and legal life.