RICO Trial for Eugene 'Big U' Henley Rescheduled to February 16, 2027: Judge Grants Defense Request for More Time
Eugene “Big U” Henley, the former manager of Nipsey Hussle, was set to face a RICO trial next month, but the trial has been rescheduled to February 16, 2027. The decision was made by District Judge Fernando Aenlle-Rocha during a hearing on April 17. Henley, along with his co-defendants Mark Martin and Sylvester Robinson, requested the trial be moved to next year due to insufficient time to prepare for the extensive case. Despite Henley's objection to the delay, the judge deemed it necessary.
Judge Aenlle-Rocha stated that the defendants had shown diligence in their need for more time to prepare for the trial, leading to the rescheduled start date. Defense attorneys cited the overwhelming amount of evidence, including 1.1 million items such as wiretapped calls and surveillance videos, as the reason for needing additional time. Henley's legal team emphasized the risk of ineffective assistance of counsel if they proceed to trial without adequate preparation.
The U.S. Attorney's Office also opposed the trial being postponed to next year, arguing that the defense team had sufficient time to review the evidence. Prosecutors raised concerns about ongoing witness intimidation, noting that delaying the trial could put individuals at risk. One cooperating witness had already experienced vandalism at their home after their identity was shared on social media.
If convicted, Henley faces a potential life sentence. The trial delay aims to ensure that all parties have ample time to review the extensive evidence and prepare for the case.