Blacc Zacc faces potential federal death penalty over alleged murder-for-hire and RICO charges

Columbia rapper Blacc Zacc could receive the federal death penalty

Columbia rapper Blacc Zacc, born Zachary Chapman, is now potentially eligible for the federal death penalty after being indicted in a murder-for-hire case alongside broader RICO allegations, according to reporting from The State and details outlined in federal court documents.

Authorities allege that Chapman operated as the leader of Dirty Money Entertainment, which investigators describe as a street gang with activities spanning South Carolina. The 22-page indictment accuses him of coordinating drug trafficking, robberies, and gang-related offenses.

Prosecutors claim one of the most serious incidents occurred in September 2021, when Chapman allegedly placed a bounty on a rival gang member suspected of stealing his diamond chain. The target was fatally shot the following month. Because the charges involve a killing connected to a criminal enterprise, the case qualifies for federal capital punishment. The U.S. Justice Department will determine in the coming months whether to formally pursue a death-penalty prosecution.

In accordance with federal capital case procedures, the court has appointed “learned counsel.” The State reports that prominent defense attorney Bill Nettles, a former U.S. Attorney for South Carolina, will serve in that capacity, working alongside attorney John Warren, as required by federal law.

Blacc Zacc was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service on October 28 and remains held without bond at the Spartanburg County Jail. He has entered a not-guilty plea to all charges. If the Justice Department opts to seek the death penalty, the case would be one of South Carolina’s most notable federal capital prosecutions in recent years due to the rapper’s regional prominence. No trial date has been announced, and his defense team has not issued public comment.