07/23/2026
OMB Bloodbath faces a second trial over her alleged role in a 2017 Houston gang murder.
After her first trial ended in a mistrial in January, federal prosecutors are taking a second crack at convicting the Texas rapper and her codefendant, Shaquile Richards, of allegedly ordering a gang hit that led to the death of an innocent bystander. Following a week-long delay, the retrial began on Monday (July 20), where prosecutors again laid out their case that Bloodbath and Richards are leaders of Houston's 100% Third Ward Gang, and organized the attempted shooting of a rival gang member nine years ago, which caused the death of 52-year-old Samuel Johnson.
“This case is not about shooters,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Zenon-Matos during Monday’s opening statement, according to the Houston Chronicle. “This case is about power.”
Jurors also heard from Mertroy Harris, a 103 Gang associate who admitted to being part of the shooting and admitted that he called Bloodbath after the incident for help and directions. The defense attempted to distance Bloodbath and Richards from the incident.
“Membership in a group does not automatically make every member responsible for every act committed by another person,” said Celeste Blackburn, Richards’ attorney.
During the second trial, the prosecution will present evidence from Bloodbath's phone that was not available during the first trial. Bloodbath and Richards are facing life in prison if convicted. The trial is expected to last two weeks.