The Jacksonville rap community is grappling with a grim chapter as Leroy “ATK Scotty” Whitaker and Hakeem “Ksoo” Robinson have been found guilty in the murder of fellow rapper Charles McCormick Jr., known in the music world as Lil’ Buck. This verdict, delivered after more than five years of legal proceedings, marks a pivotal moment in addressing violence that has plagued the city’s hip-hop scene.
The Incident and Trial
On January 15, 2020, authorities allege that Whitaker, Robinson, and their accomplice Dominique “Butta” Barner were actively searching for McCormick that day. The group eventually located him outside an Arlington shopping center where Robinson opened fire in a drive-by shooting. While Whitaker was armed during the attack, prosecutors said he did not fire his weapon. Barner, in his testimony as part of a plea deal, admitted to being the getaway driver.
The prosecution built their case on the premise that this tragic event was fueled by ongoing disputes within Jacksonville’s rap community, particularly linked to diss tracks and escalating tensions. Specifically, McCormick’s diss track aimed at Robinson’s half-brother, Willie Addison—himself a victim of a 2019 drive-by shooting—appeared to be the catalyst for the violent confrontation.
The Aftermath and Justice Served
State Attorney Melissa Nelson emphasized the significance of the verdict, stating, “Five years ago, Hakeem Robinson and Leroy Whitaker stalked a man and gunned him down in broad daylight because of disputes and drill rap. Today, a jury held them accountable for their brazen crimes.” She commended law enforcement and the legal team for their relentless pursuit of justice, noting that removing two dangerous individuals from the streets is a victory for the community.
Both defendants were convicted of first-degree murder, with Whitaker also found guilty of burglary with assault or battery. Sentencing hearings have been scheduled for September 8, with defense attorneys noting that life imprisonment is expected since the case does not involve the death penalty.
Reflecting on the Jacksonville Rap Scene
This case underscores a troubling pattern where disputes within the music industry, particularly in the drill rap subgenre, spill over into real-world violence. The cycle of retaliation — sparked by diss tracks and territorial rivalries — has claimed several lives in Jacksonville, leaving a mark on the community and the artists striving to make their voices heard through music.
The convictions of Ksoo and ATK Scotty bring some closure to the devastating loss of Charles McCormick Jr. but also raise urgent questions about how to foster a safer environment for artists and their communities. Efforts to address these issues will require collaboration between law enforcement, community leaders, and the music industry to prevent future tragedies driven by conflict and violence.
Moving Forward
As the Jacksonville rap scene mourns, the legal resolution in this case sends a clear message: violent actions have serious consequences, regardless of music industry affiliations. The hope is that this reckoning inspires not only justice but also healing and change within the local culture, paving the way for artists to express themselves without fear and for communities to reclaim safety.
The verdict against Ksoo and ATK Scotty is a sobering reminder of the intersection between artistry and violence in urban environments. Understanding and addressing these challenges is critical for the future of Jacksonville’s rap scene and its artists.
