Los Angeles, CA–Eric Holder, 29, was due in court yesterday for a pre-trial conference and a Judge has finally set a trial date. Holder is accused of killing rapper Nipsey Hussle in front of his Marathon Clothing Store in March 2019. The murder of Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Asghedom, 33, sent shockwaves beyond Los Angeles, as we were once again reminded of the cycle of death and violence that inner cities never seem to escape from.
Almost three years later family, friends and supporters of Asghedom might actually get answers into his death.
Lowynn Young, Holder’s previous attorney, took a position on the judge’s bench and his new team has needed time to review the case. When he was initially arrested, Holder retained Christopher Darden as his lawyer, who famously represented O.J Simpson in his 1995 murder trial.
Grainy video footage released by news outlets show Hussle being gunned down and a man running through an alley adjacent to the shopping plaza. Although it is unable to identify Holder in the released footage, a woman who has since received immunity by police for her testimony, says she was waiting for Holder. He was apprehended by police a few days after the shooting and has since switched lawyers several times.
Holder even refused to leave his cell for a recent court date.
Darden said his choice to defend Holder was because he believes the constitution applies to everyone and everyone has the right to a competent lawyer. He decided not to represent Holder a few months later due to what he says what threats on his life by angry Nipsey Hussle supporters.
Aaron Jansen, Holder’s current lawyer tells media that Holder was experiencing a substantial mental health issue” and was “off his medication” the day of the shooting.
Trial begins Jan. 5 2022.
