Mos Def in Court!!

Rapper Mos Def has appeared in a Chicago court to defend a former death row inmate. The hip-hop star - real name Dante Terrell Smith - spoke on Aaron Patterson's behalf at a sentencing hearing Monday.

Patterson spent 13 years in prison on death row for a double murder he claims he didn't commit and alleges that Chicago homicide detectives framed and tortured him. He was released in 2003, but has since been convicted of drug and gun charges. Prosecutors are seeking a 30-year term for Patterson claiming he also coordinated gang activities from prison.

But Smith defended him, telling the court, "He's definitely an asset to the community. He cares a great deal for his people."