VP Records, Zojak Worldwide and cop write support letters for gun-smuggling producer ‘Countree Hype’

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Record label VP Records and a corporal in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have thrown their support behind confessed gun smuggler, Taugea ‘Countree Hype’ Dayes, writing sentencing support letters to federal court judge Roy Altman on behalf of the dancehall producer.

A letter penned by Stephen Chin of VP Records was written in the capacity of a six-year business relationship with Dayes.

“Over the years, I have come to know Mr Dayes as a respectful, hardworking and dependable person. In both professional and personal interactions, he has always conducted himself with professionalism and kindness towards others,” Chin wrote.

Recently, Countree Hype pleaded guilty in the United States (US) to charges linked to the smuggling of 30 firearms to Jamaica.

According to federal prosecutors, the music producer pleaded guilty to smuggling a weapons shipment, which allegedly included 30 firearms, 32 magazines, and over 100 rounds of ammunition.

The shipment had been concealed inside office chairs but was intercepted by Jamaican authorities in March 2025.

The case sparked a federal investigation in the United States.

Countree Hype is awaiting sentencing and faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Corporal Jason Bennett wrote that “as someone who works in law enforcement and interacts with many different individuals in both personal and professional settings, I can honestly say Mr Dayes has always presented himself respectfully” and has “shown qualities of leadership, responsibility and compassion towards others”.

Bennett also urged the court to take into consideration Dayes’ character, referencing “the good he has done within the community and the positive influence he has had on others when determining sentencing”.

There was also a sentencing support letter from Zojak Worldwide LLC, as well as letters from several other individuals in support of Dayes’ sentencing request for a downward variance”.

The artiste has remained positive despite his upcoming sentencing hearing.

In a video shared online, the producer acknowledged the headlines surrounding the case, saying: “I know some of you may have seen the headlines, some of it may be true… but we positive, big up the people them that reach out to me.”

Despite the guilty plea, Countree Hype released a video saying that he remains focused and positive, adding that “God knows best” as he continues to deal with the situation.

He also addressed the backlash and negative comments online by reciting the Bible verse John 8:7: “Let he without sin cast the first stone.”