J-Banks

Former Murder Inc. Lawyer Accused Of Bribing Witnessess

Written By Cyrus Langhorne

Murder Inc. criminal defense lawyer Robert Simels was recently arrested and charged with witness tampering and obstruction of justice on behalf of alleged drug lord Shaheed Khan.

According to The New York Times, Simels was taken-in by authorities yesterday (September 10) after a federal investigation claimed he worked as the middle man for Khan, known for operating an international cocaine ring with a paramilitary group called “phantom squad” in Guyana. Simels’ allegedly had an active role and duty to “neutralize” witnesses who were willing to testify against Khan and other clients.

Federal authorities claim to have recorded footage from an informant as stated in a filed complaint where he reportedly spoke on having a witness removed from a trial.

“So, you would think that if she didn’t testify, refused to testify, that would be good,” Simels allegedly asked in a recorded conversation. “Here’s a thousand dollars to get started.”

Despite the federal government’s involvement in the matter, his attorney Gerald L. Shargel explained his firm’s readiness to address the pretrial procedures.

“We’re anxiously awaiting to see what’s presented at discovery,” he told SOHH. “The government has possession of taped recordings but this is a very thin case.”


The NY lawyer stressed the quality of this case being weak and revealed to SOHH the limited time authorities have to force a trial.

“They have 30 days to secure and serve an indictment,” he added. “If indicted, [Simels] will plead not guilty and we will gladly work hard to defend him.”

Simels was released on $3.5 million and is currently awaiting a hearing.

The lawyer’s big name clients include hip-hop record label Murder Inc., notorious drug kingpin Kenneth “Supreme” Griffith and Henry Hill, the real life inspiration behind the famed mafia movie Goodfellas.

Source: sohh

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