The rapper and co-defendant Leroy Whitaker were on trial together for the murder of Charles McCormick in January 2020.
Malcolm Harvey, Tobie Nell Perkins, First Coast News (On Your Side)
8:58 AM EDT July 31, 2025
12:24 PM EDT July 31, 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On day seven of the murder trial involving Jacksonville rapper Ksoo, significant progress was made as verdicts were delivered for both the rapper and his co-defendant, Leroy Whitaker.
The rapper, known by his real name Hakeem Robinson, and Whitaker, also referred to as ATK Scotty, faced trial concerning the January 2020 murder of Charles McCormick. Each defendant had a different jury assigned to their case.
Judge Tatiana Salvador gave Whitaker’s jury instructions when the trial resumed Thursday, as they were then excused to deliberate.
Robinson’s attorney, Christopher DeCoste, presented his closing argument. Following this, the prosecution delivered their rebuttal, after which the jury assigned to Robinson were given instructions before retiring to deliberate.
Both Robinson and Whitaker were convicted of first-degree murder as members of a criminal gang. Additionally, Whitaker was found guilty of burglary with assault or battery relating to a violent home invasion that occurred after the murder.
Prosecutors alleged that on January 15, 2020, Robinson shot McCormick as he exited a temp agency on Merrill Road. They asserted that Whitaker was in the vehicle with Robinson, aiding in the pursuit of McCormick, and was armed, prepared to use his weapon if necessary.
