YNW Melly is currently being held in Florida’s Broward County Jail, where he’s reportedly suffering severe COVID-19 symptoms. The “Suicidal” rapper requested to be released into home confinement, but was denied on Tuesday (April 14).
According to TMZ, Melly is currently experiencing labored breathing, chills, high fever, body aches and headaches. He’s reportedly receiving Gatorade and Tylenol as remedies for his Coronavirus symptoms. The outlet also alleges that jail staff have not been checking on Melly hourly, which is protocol.
Melly’s attorney Bradford Cohen previously complained about similar treatment when he first requested the rapper’s release. Cohen claimed Melly had lost weight, was not being treated properly by medical personnel and that the jail did not have “masks or cleaning supplies that would be beneficial regarding his recovery.” He further alleged the jail was acting “against all recommendations of the Surgeon General and CDC.”
On Thursday (April 16), Melly seemingly sought out help from Kanye West, whom he collaborated with on his 2019 song, “Mixed Personalities.”
“[Kanye West] need your help Dm,” he tweeted.
Despite being incarcerated, Melly has remained active on social media. His team used Instagram to first reveal his Coronavirus diagnosis earlier this month.
“Melly has tested positive for COVID-19 while awaiting his trial in Broward County jail,” the post read. “He’ll be filing a motion for restricted release in hopes of better care due to many jails not being prepared to treat this new virus. He hopes for your support and to recover soon #prayformelly send positive energy to him please.”
According to TMZ, the presiding judge in Melly’s case has said that the rapper will need to request special medical treatment from the Broward Sheriff’s Office if necessary during his Coronavirus battle. The Broward County Sheriff’s Office further stated that only inmates who show “acute” COVID-19 symptoms will be transferred to a hospital.