Harlem Teenager and Accused Gang Member Afrika Owes Remains Locked Up

Rep. Charlie Rangel came to Manhattan Criminal Court Friday to support Afrika Owes, 17, who has been jailed for two weeks on felony conspiracy and weapons charges.

She is an alleged member of the 137th Street Crew, a violent gang accused of dealing crack cocaine in Harlem. She had also been a scholarship prep school student with a bright future.

Rangel said Afrika deserves a break, but he was not allowed to speak in court. In fact, at one point Judge Edward McLaughlin told the standing Rangel "someone standing should sit."

Afrika's attoey argued instead of a $50,000 bail, her client should be released without bail backed by the Abyssinian Baptist Church.

Afrika and her mother are part of that church and its pastor, the influential Calvin Butts, supports Afrika's release.

Judge Mclaughlin was reluctant, citing legal conces over a nonprofit offering money in a criminal matter. He also cited an audio recording of Afrika's boyfriend telling her if she had trouble transporting handguns, she should aim to kill.

The judge delayed making a decision. Afrika began to shake her head and cry when she realized she would have to retu to Rikers Island.

Afrika will be back in court March 21, 2011, for more legal review of her bail.

On 137th Street in Harlem, many thought Afrika should get a break and be out on bail. But some did not and said she should pay for her crimes if she is guilty.

Surrounded by church supporters, Karen, Afrika's mother, left court refusing comment. In the past, she has described her daughter as, "Harlem's darling and a good girl."