Snoop Dogg has officially closed the chapter on his 1993 murder case as the records have now been sealed, pushing the case further into the past.
According to a report by TMZ on October 9, Snoop quietly filed to have the case sealed back in January, with a judge approving it the following month. This means that, as of February, the West Coast legend has legally left the case behind.
Key to this legal victory was Ceasar McDowell and the nonprofit organization Unite the People, who reportedly played a crucial role in the process.
The case in question centered on the murder of Philip “Little Smooth” Woldemariam, a member of a rival gang. Woldemariam was shot by Snoop’s bodyguard, Malik, in what was ruled as self-defense.
At the time, Snoop was in the midst of recording his iconic debut album Doggystyle, and the incident later inspired the hit single and music video “Murder Was The Case.”
In a recent episode of his podcast Collect Call, Suge Knight claimed he played a vital role in Snoop’s acquittal, boldly stating, “If it weren’t for me, [Snoop would] still be in prison doing life.”
Knight shared details about the case, revealing discrepancies between the weapons involved, which he argued helped Snoop’s defense.
Both Snoop and his bodyguard were acquitted of all charges, with the court recognizing the shooting as an act of self-defense. Alleged missteps by the LAPD further weakened the prosecution’s case.
Suge Knight also revealed that he spent $6 million to tie up loose ends, including paying off someone within Snoop’s circle who was blackmailing the rapper.
According to Knight, he met with a private investigator, recorded a statement, and ensured the damaging tape was destroyed.
Now, with the case officially sealed, Snoop Dogg can move forward, leaving this chapter of his life firmly behind him.
