Eugene “Big U” Henley is asking a federal judge to grant him a temporary release from jail so he can attend and take part in the Islamic burial rites for his son, 34-year-old Jabari Henley, who was recently killed. The request was made in an ex parte application filed this week.
Henley, who is being held on federal RICO charges, is seeking supervised release under a statute that allows temporary freedom for a “compelling reason.” His attorneys argue that few things are more compelling than a father being able to carry out his final religious duties for his child.
His legal team opens the filing with a plea for compassion, writing: “The death of one’s child represents an unparalleled human tragedy. The opportunity to attend and participate in the funeral rites is not merely a matter of personal preference, but a fundamental expression of human dignity.”
The application notes that Henley and his family are practicing Muslims, and Islamic burial customs require immediate family involvement in duties like the ritual washing (Ghusl al-mayyit) and shrouding (Kafn) of the body — rites considered obligatory acts of faith. Henley is only asking to attend Friday’s (Nov. 21) private religious rites, not the public burial planned for the following day. His lawyers say denying this would intensify his grief.
“To deny this narrow request would inflict an additional, profound layer of suffering upon a parent already enduring the unimaginable grief of burying their child,” the document states.
Several letters from family members and supporters were included, urging the judge to show compassion.
“We humbly request your compassion… This is not only a time for our family to lay Jabari to rest, but also an opportunity for Mr. Henley to find some measure of peace and closure as a grieving father,” read one letter signed by multiple relatives.
A separate supporter highlighted Henley’s influence in the community, writing: “Allowing Eugene to attend his son’s funeral would be a compassionate gesture… It will reinforce the values of empathy and understanding within our justice system.”
Henley is currently held at MDC Los Angeles awaiting trial. The government has opposed his request to attend the private rites. To address any concerns, his attorneys have proposed strict conditions including electronic monitoring, private security, a secured bond, and a tightly controlled schedule.
The decision now falls to U.S. District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, who will determine whether Henley can temporarily leave federal custody under tight supervision to grieve his son according to his faith.
Jabari Henley was shot and killed on Halloween night in South Los Angeles. No arrests have been made so far.
