After 13 Years in Prison, Reggae DJ Plans Holiday Performance
Popular Reggae DJ Vybz Kartel was arrested in 2011 and sentenced to 35 years in prison by 2014. He was finally released on July 31, 2024.
Vybz Kartel, 48, showed great resilience during his 13-year prison sentence, as noted by a mental health professional.
Kartel, who was released from a Jamaican prison on July 31, has already made plans to perform again in Jamaica on New Year’s Eve.
The dancehall deejay was convicted in 2014 for the murder of a Jamaican entrepreneur, although the body was never found, and has maintained his innocence.
“It would have been extremely hard to remain upbeat while in prison,” said Sarah Boss, clinical director of The Balance Rehab, to The Epoch Times. “This indicates an incredible sense of resilience within him that would have been developed prior to his sentencing and strengthened during incarceration. Some people come out of prison unable to re-adjust while others come out with a new outlook on life.”
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Vybz Kartel, birth name Adidja Azim Palmer, gained fame in 2003 with hit reggae tunes like “Fever” and “Summertime.”
Kartel’s conviction was appealed due to a compromised juror, leading to the overturning of his conviction in the Jamaican justice system.
After his release, Kartel celebrated with 150 family members through cooking, fun activities, prayer, and gratitude.
“Now he has the opportunity to re-write the story. This can be an incredibly cathartic and empowering experience,” said Boss.
Kartel faced health challenges during his imprisonment, including a weak heart and Graves’ disease, for which he had limited access to medical care.
Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder, can cause symptoms like weight gain and bulging eyes.
Kartel released his latest album, “First Week Out,” on the day of his release.
His fiancee, Sidem Ozturk, a British-Turkish native, welcomed him as he left prison.
Ozturk met Kartel through letters in 2015 and in person for the first time in 2019, considering him her inspiration.
Kartel has been married twice and has seven children.
Surrounding himself with support from loved ones and professionals will be crucial for Kartel, as advised by Boss to take time to mentally adjust to his new reality.
“The world has changed tremendously since he entered prison in 2011, and he will need time to readjust,” Boss explained. “The criminal justice system should be more attuned to mental health treatment to prevent psychological issues in newly released prisoners.”
