Tekashi 6ix9ine's pre-trial conference took place earlier today and it may have resulted in more complications in the rapper's legal battle. According to XXL, the presiding judge ruled in the opening portion that the rapper's lawyer might have to be taken off the case until they resolve whether Lance Lazzaro's involvement is a potential conflict of interest to the case.
The judge's ruling came after it was revealed that Lazzaro previously represented two of 6ix9ine's co-defendants, Faheem "Crippy" Walter and Kifano "Shotti" Jordan before taking on 6ix9ine for this specific case. The judge expressed his disappointment in Lazzaro for failing to disclose the information, saying that Lazzaro's previous dealings with 6ix9ine's co-defendants could be a conflict of interest.
Lazzaro explained he didn't think it would've been a big deal since he represented Shotti in several cases between 2009 to 2015. He further explained he represented Walter after his client was charged with gang assault in 2018. The judge said Lazzaro wasn't in any position to decide if the matter would be considered a conflict of interest.
The judge said Lazzaro couldn't represent 6ix9ine until he sends detailed letters explaining his prior dealings with both co-defendants. If Lazzaro fails to submit these letters or if it's found there's a conflict of interest, Lazzaro could very well be relieved of counsel for 6ix9ine. 6ix9ine's other lawyer, Dawn Florio, will presumably continue to represent the rapper regardless of Lazzaro's fate.
XXL also revealed that 6ix9ine didn't apply for bail, despite his lawyer's claims. The next pre-trial conference for 6ix9ine's racketeering case is set for Feb. 27th with the trial date set to start on September 4th.
