US federal authorities have alleged that dancehall artist Andre Maurice Whittaker, popularly known as Squash, is the leader of a "transnational criminal organization".
Federal prosecutors have laid new charges against the artist, stating they have evidence linking him to the G-City Gang, which they claim has been involved in criminal activity in both Jamaica and Florida since at least 2017.
The case took a sharp turn in May, when federal prosecutors reportedly sealed a criminal complaint against him. By May 27, after his legal team filed over two dozen motions, a trial date was set—prompting federal officials to step in, asserting their intent to take over the case.
The Big Breeze singer remains in custody at the Miami Detention Center. His trial is scheduled for September 2 in the Southern District of Florida. However, the deejay has been given an August 26 deadline to accept a plea deal and avoid trial, or face a possibly longer sentence in the slammer.
Squash was initially arrested on February 24 during a traffic stop in Miami. A modified Glock pistol was reportedly found in the glove compartment of the vehicle. He pleaded not guilty to charges of illegal possession of a modified weapon, and possession of a concealed weapon without a permit. This case has since been closed.
Additionally, court documents allege Squash entered the U.S. illegally in January 2021, after fleeing Jamaica amid a deadly gang feud. He was previously detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and later released on bond after marrying an American citizen, who federal authorities say purchased one of the weapons found in his possession.
Squash now faces charges of illegal possession of a firearm as an undocumented immigrant, and unlawful possession of a machine gun. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison and possible deportation.
