Dancehall Producer Countree Hype Sentenced in U.S. for Gun Smuggling to Jamaica

Renowned Dancehall producer, Countree Hype, born Taugea Ubert Dayes, has been sentenced to 70 months in a U.S. federal prison after pleading guilty to firearm smuggling offences. The 33-year-old’s sentencing took place in a federal court in Miami, Florida, with the charges linked to shipments destined for Jamaica.

In addition to the 70-month sentence, Dayes also received a 60-month sentence for delivering a firearm to a common carrier without the necessary written notification. These sentences will run concurrently, meaning he will serve the longer 70-month term. The court also ordered Dayes to pay a US$200 special assessment as part of his punishment.

Upon his release from prison, Dayes is expected to serve three years of supervised release. However, due to his immigration status, he could face deportation proceedings that may result in his removal to Jamaica. This adds an additional layer of uncertainty to his future.

According to U.S. prosecutors, Dayes used the alias ‘Jamie Roberts’ while arranging firearm shipments to Jamaica. Surveillance footage and intercepted packages connected him to the weapons that were stopped before reaching their intended destination. The defence requested a 36-month prison term, but prosecutors argued for a term between 70 and 75 months. The offences carried a maximum possible sentence of ten years.

The sentencing has stirred significant discussion on social media, highlighting a divide in public sentiment. Many expressed disappointment given Countree Hype’s influence within the dancehall community, while others emphasized the seriousness of firearm trafficking offences and the impact illegal weapons have on crime in the Caribbean.