Vybz Kartel Reveals U.S. Residency, Cites Safety Concerns in Jamaica

New York, NY – Jamaican dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel has disclosed that he is now residing in Florida, United States, citing safety concerns in his native Jamaica. The artist made the revelation during a live interview on The Breakfast Club radio show with hosts Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy, while in New York.

During the interview, Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, responded to a question from Charlamagne Tha God about whether Jamaica was a safe place for him, stating, “Of course not.” When further questioned about his primary residence, he confirmed, “I live here [in the United States], I live in Florida.”

Kartel clarified that his unease was not directly related to the Jamaican government or its people. “I spent 13 years in prison, like seriously, that’s not a joke,” he explained. “I need to go out now and I’m working. Florida is good because it’s a hub, you can go to New York, you can go across the Atlantic, England, go west, you’re in LA. It’s a nice place to be geographically, where we can just move.”

The artist also indicated that he has no plans to return to areas in Jamaica he previously frequented. “I am just staying out of trouble. I don’t want to be in nothing negative, never. So we stay away from that,” he remarked.

Kartel was released from prison on July 31, 2024, after serving 13 years for the murder of his associate Clive “Lizard” Williams. His conviction was overturned by the United Kingdom Privy Council, which cited jury misconduct. This decision was subsequently upheld by Jamaica’s Court of Appeal.

This announcement comes amidst Kartel’s efforts to rebuild his career following his release, and reveals a significant shift in his living situation.