In a shocking twist during a murder trial in Jacksonville, Florida, Abdul Robinson Sr. took the stand to testify against his own son, rapper Hakeem Robinson, known as Queso, implicating him in the shooting death of 23-year-old Charles McCormack Jr. on January 15, 2020. The courtroom drama unfolded as Robinson Sr. acknowledged his own precarious legal situation, facing charges of accessory after the fact and possibly life in prison, prompting him to cooperate with authorities in hopes of receiving a lighter sentence.
The events leading to McCormack’s death are rooted in a vendetta tied to a diss track McCormack had released, which allegedly provoked Queso due to its references to a deceased family member. Prosecutors argue that this motive drove Queso to commit the crime, while the defense contends that his father had a greater motive, as he had lost a loved one in a previous shooting.
During his testimony, Robinson Sr. recounted how he was called by his son, Kareem, to provide a ride for Queso and his cousin Leroy Whitaker Jr. shortly after the murder. He stated that when he later viewed security footage, he recognized his own son as the individual who shot McCormack. The gravity of his accusation was underscored when he was asked about the emotional toll of testifying against his son. “Self love first, right?” he responded, emphasizing his own survival over familial loyalty.
Robinson Sr.’s history as a cooperating witness came under scrutiny during the trial, with the defense questioning his credibility. They pointed out that he had previously testified against law enforcement officials to secure plea deals, suggesting a pattern of self-serving cooperation that raises doubts about his current motivations. Despite this, Robinson Sr. maintained that his decision to testify was not taken lightly, citing health issues and the need to care for his young children as part of his rationale.
The prosecution presented surveillance footage from the incident, which they claim shows Queso as the shooter. However, the defense argued that the physical characteristics of the shooter do not match Robinson Jr., asserting that their client is too large to be the person depicted in the video. The defense also highlighted the inconsistencies in Robinson Sr.’s account, pointing to his alleged ignorance of the plot that led to the murder.
The trial not only implicates Queso but also encompasses other family members, including Whitaker, who has already taken a plea deal, and Kareem Robinson, who is expected to face charges in a separate trial. The unfolding narrative of familial betrayal and the quest for self-preservation has captivated the public and raised questions about loyalty and justice in the face of severe legal consequences.
As the case continues, it serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and tragic outcomes that can arise from life in a violent environment. The families affected by these losses are once again forced to confront their grief in the public eye, while the legal system navigates the murky waters of familial conflict, loyalty, and the pursuit of justice. The trial is set to resume soon, with further testimonies expected to shed light on this tragic series of events.