Malcolm Graham, 27, from Bootle, Merseyside. He was known for his gang links before embarking on a rap career using the name “Mazza L20.” In 2016, authorities found video on Graham’s iPhone of him test-firing a Russian-made Baikal automatic pistol. This very gun was used during the killing of 17-year-old Kevin Wilson who was shot in the back at the junction of Holmes Street, Wavertree, on February 7, 2015.
While Malcolm Graham had been tied to the weapon, there was no indication he was involved with Wilson’s murder directly. He had pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a firearm, possession of bullets. And two counts of wounding with intent. The court also heard of his assault on one of his co-accused and an attack on an inmate while remanded at Hindley Prison. As a result, he was sentenced to 11 years behind bars.
Making Illegal Music While in Prison
While behind bars, Malcolm Graham carved out a rap career under the name “Mazza L20.” I had done videos from my cell bragging about the crime I did,” . Denouncing informers “rats,” he called them that he called “not men.” His track “Murderside” came another of the biggest one going viral and gaining a million plus views. In the song, he boasted of having a pump-action shotgun at the age of 14 and of hatred for informants.
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) was made aware of those activities. Took the decision to delete the videos from sites like YouTube and TikTok. They even seized a mobile phone from Malcolm Graham, underlining that prisoners discovered with such devices would be punished and potentially have their sentences extended.
Public and Judicial Reactions
Both Graham’s behavior during his imprisonment and conduct after his release have raised eyebrows in a very public novelty. Rapper Aitch publicly called out Malcolm Graham regarding his illegal prison recordings. An example of the problematic nature of glorifying criminal lifestyles in music.
Law enforcement and prison officials have raised concerns about Graham’s actions, and especially the difficulties posed by inmates using mobile devices to interface with the outside world. The ministry has shown a zero tolerance policy in this regard and stated that it is reviewing all those involved in the violations.
