Columbia, December 5, 2025
Columbia-based rapper Blacc Zacc, born Zachary Chapman, has been arrested on serious charges, including RICO conspiracy and a murder-for-hire plot. Authorities are considering pursuing the death penalty as federal prosecutors prepare for legal proceedings. Chapman’s indictment details accusations of leading a street gang and orchestrating a violent crime following a dispute over stolen property. As he awaits trial, the community is concerned about the implications of these charges.
Columbia, South Carolina
Federal prosecutors are considering seeking the death penalty against Columbia-based rapper Blacc Zacc, born Zachary Chapman, following his arrest on multiple serious charges, including a murder-for-hire plot and RICO conspiracy.
Details of the Charges
Chapman, 34, was arrested on October 28, 2025, by U.S. Marshals and is currently detained at the Spartanburg County Jail. A 22-page indictment alleges that Chapman led Dirty Money Entertainment (DME), a street gang based in Columbia, South Carolina. The indictment outlines several charges against Chapman:
- RICO Conspiracy
- Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
- Two counts of Use, Carry, and Discharge of a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence
- Conspiracy to Commit Murder in Aid of Racketeering
- Murder in Aid of Racketeering
- Use of Interstate Commerce Facilities in the Commission of Murder-for-Hire
- Causing Death Through Use of a Firearm
- Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats or Violence
These charges stem from a 2021 incident where Chapman allegedly orchestrated a murder-for-hire plot after a rival gang member stole a diamond chain. The victim was killed in October 2021. Chapman has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is awaiting trial. A detention hearing is scheduled for December 8, 2025, in Greenville, South Carolina, where the U.S. Attorney’s Office has requested that Chapman remain detained pending trial.
Potential Death Penalty Consideration
In federal death penalty cases, the law requires that the defense have one “learned counsel,” an attorney qualified and experienced in defending capital cases. Bill Nettles, a former U.S. Attorney for South Carolina, has been appointed as learned counsel for Chapman. This appointment indicates that federal prosecutors are considering seeking the death penalty in this case. The decision to pursue capital punishment will depend on various factors, including the specifics of the case and the legal proceedings that follow.
Background on Blacc Zacc
Born on December 17, 1990, in Columbia, South Carolina, Zachary Chapman, known professionally as Blacc Zacc, is a prominent figure in the hip-hop and trap music scenes. He gained recognition with his single “Make a Sale,” featuring Moneybagg Yo, and has collaborated with artists such as DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Young Dolph, Foogiano, LightSkinKeisha, and Renni Rucci. In 2019, he signed with Interscope Records and released his debut studio album, “Carolina Narco,” which featured guest appearances from notable rappers. Despite his musical success, Chapman has faced legal issues, including the current federal charges.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Chapman’s legal team, including appointed learned counsel Bill Nettles, will represent him in the upcoming detention hearing and any subsequent trials. The court will determine whether to grant bail and set a trial date. The prosecution’s decision to seek the death penalty will be influenced by the developments in the case and the legal arguments presented by both parties.
Implications for the Community
The case has garnered significant attention due to Chapman’s prominence in the local music scene and the serious nature of the charges. It highlights ongoing concerns about gang-related activities and violence in the Columbia area. The community is closely monitoring the legal proceedings, which are expected to have broader implications for local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Related Legal Context
In federal cases involving the death penalty, the appointment of learned counsel is a standard procedure to ensure that the defendant receives competent legal representation. The decision to seek the death penalty is made by federal prosecutors based on the circumstances of the case, the severity of the alleged crimes, and other legal considerations. The outcome of this case may influence future legal strategies and policies related to capital punishment in South Carolina.
Conclusion
The arrest of Blacc Zacc on multiple serious charges, including a murder-for-hire plot and RICO conspiracy, has raised significant legal and community concerns. The potential pursuit of the death penalty underscores the gravity of the allegations and the legal complexities involved. As the case progresses, it will be important to monitor the legal proceedings and their impact on the community and the broader music industry.
FAQ
What charges is Blacc Zacc facing?
Blacc Zacc, born Zachary Chapman, is facing multiple charges, including RICO Conspiracy, Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Use of Firearm During Crime of Violence, Conspiracy to Commit Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Use of Interstate Commerce Facilities in the Commission of Murder-for-Hire, Causing Death Through Use of a Firearm, and Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats or Violence. These charges stem from a 2021 incident where Chapman allegedly orchestrated a murder-for-hire plot after a rival gang member stole a diamond chain.
Is Blacc Zacc facing the death penalty?
Federal prosecutors are considering seeking the death penalty in this case. In federal death penalty cases, the law requires that the defense have one “learned counsel,” an attorney qualified and experienced in defending capital cases. Bill Nettles, a former U.S. Attorney for South Carolina, has been appointed as learned counsel for Chapman, indicating that the prosecution is contemplating pursuing capital punishment. The final decision will depend on various factors, including the specifics of the case and the legal proceedings that follow.
What is the background of Blacc Zacc?
Zachary Chapman, known professionally as Blacc Zacc, is a 34-year-old rapper from Columbia, South Carolina. He gained recognition with his single “Make a Sale,” featuring Moneybagg Yo, and has collaborated with artists such as DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Young Dolph, Foogiano, LightSkinKeisha, and Renni Rucci. In 2019, he signed with Interscope Records and released his debut studio album, “Carolina Narco,” which featured guest appearances from notable rappers. Despite his musical success, Chapman has faced legal issues, including the current federal charges.
What are the next steps in Blacc Zacc’s legal proceedings?
Chapman’s legal team, including appointed learned counsel Bill Nettles, will represent him in the upcoming detention hearing and any subsequent trials. The court will determine whether to grant bail and set a trial date. The prosecution’s decision to seek the death penalty will be influenced by the developments in the case and the legal arguments presented by both parties. A detention hearing is scheduled for December 8, 2025, in Greenville, South Carolina, where the U.S. Attorney’s Office has requested that Chapman remain detained pending trial.
How has the community responded to Blacc Zacc’s arrest?
The case has garnered significant attention due to Chapman’s prominence in the local music scene and the serious nature of the charges. It highlights ongoing concerns about gang-related activities and violence in the Columbia area. The community is closely monitoring the legal proceedings, which are expected to have broader implications for local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Blacc Zacc (Zachary Chapman) |
| Age | 34 |
| Charges | RICO Conspiracy, Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Use of Firearm During Crime of Violence, Conspiracy to Commit Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, Use of Interstate Commerce Facilities in the Commission of Murder-for-Hire, Causing Death Through Use of a Firearm, Conspiracy to Interfere with Commerce by Threats or Violence |
| Legal Representation | Bill Nettles (appointed learned counsel), John Warren |
| Detention Hearing | Scheduled for December 8, 2025, in Greenville, South Carolina |
| Potential Death Penalty | Under consideration by federal prosecutors |
| Background | Prominent rapper from Columbia, South Carolina, known for his single “Make a Sale” |
Now Happening on X
- @WSOCTV (November 28, 2025, 10:30 AM) Reports one person killed and another injured in a shooting in Rock Hill, SC, according to police. View on X
- @PCYorkCounty (November 28, 2025, 11:22 AM) Details a teen killed and a man seriously hurt in an overnight gunfire incident at a Rock Hill apartment complex, police confirm. View on X
- @WCCBCharlotte (November 28, 2025, 4:17 PM) An 18-year-old was killed and another man injured in a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex early Friday morning. View on X
- @RHHerald (November 28, 2025, 11:10 AM) Police report a teen dead and a man wounded in a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex. View on X
- @WYFFNews4 (November 29, 2025, 4:30 AM) One dead and one injured following a shooting at a Rock Hill apartment complex. View on X
- @Queen_City_News (November 28, 2025, 10:18 AM) Breaking: A man killed and another seriously injured after gunfire at a Rock Hill apartment complex, per police. View on X
- @RHHerald (December 3, 2025, 2:00 PM) Two unsolved killings in Rock Hill and Lancaster, SC, following a second shooting in two days, cases remain open. View on X
- @RHHerald (December 1, 2025, 9:50 AM) Unsolved murders in Rock Hill and Lancaster, SC, after back-to-back shootings, investigations ongoing. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
