Terrell Campbell, a 29-year-old Brooklyn resident and aspiring rapper known as “Yung Based Prince,” was arraigned in Nassau County Court on charges related to a horrific 2021 acid assault on a Long Island college student.

Campbell faces allegations of throwing sulfuric acid in the face of Nafiah Ikram, then a 21-year-old Hofstra University pre-med student, in an incident that left her with severe injuries. The charges against him include assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawful possession of noxious material.

According to The Post, Campbell’s arrest stems from the March 2021 attack in Elmont, where he allegedly targeted Ikram in her driveway, causing lifelong physical and emotional damage, with evidence including incriminating lyrics from his own music video later used by authorities to link him to the crime. He pleaded not guilty during his court appearance on Tuesday and was ordered held without bail. His next court date is set for Feb. 18.

From Driveway Horror to Courtroom Drama

The incident unfolded on a night in March 2021 when Ikram returned home from her job at CVS. Standing in her Elmont driveway, she was suddenly approached by a masked individual, later identified as Campbell, who threw a cup of 70% sulfuric acid at her face. The attack left her with second- and third-degree burns across her face, arms, and chest.

Ikram, now 26, lost vision in one eye as the acid melted her contact lenses during the assault. She has since endured numerous surgeries and struggles with anxiety and depression as a result of the trauma. Her resilience shines through as she continues her studies at Hofstra, determined to become a doctor.

During the attack, Ikram recalled a desperate plea in her mind, as previously shared with The Post: “God please, I’m 21 years old. This is not how I want to die.” The courtroom fell silent as prosecutors detailed her injuries, with an officer noting her skin appeared to be “falling off.”

Digital Clues in a Disturbing Song

Authorities built their case against Campbell with evidence from his own online presence. A YouTube video for his song “Obsidian,” uploaded two years after the incident and viewed fewer than 100 times by his arrest, contained lyrics eerily similar to the assault on Ikram. In the track, he rapped, “On the street in the night like a hitman assassin, try to run up, have your face burning in acid.”

Prosecutors also uncovered Google searches tied to Campbell’s rap alias and phone number, conducted minutes after the attack, including queries about cleaning sulfuric acid and whether FaceTime could be traced. Later searches involved recovering from acid burns and even references to ancient laws like “eye for an eye.” These digital footprints became critical in linking him to the crime.

District Attorney Anne Donnelly condemned Campbell’s apparent lack of remorse, stating, “Campbell apparently thought he was in the clear as time dragged on — leaving him confident enough to brag about it in his failed rap song.” She further criticized his actions, saying, “It is clear, this heartless defendant intended to cause her irreversible harm.”

Why This Story Matters

This case resonates deeply within the Long Island community and beyond, highlighting the devastating impact of violent crime on young lives pursuing their dreams. It raises critical questions about safety in seemingly secure suburban areas like Elmont, where such a vicious act occurred in a residential driveway. Moreover, it underscores the role of digital evidence in modern investigations, showing how online behavior can expose criminal intent.

The story also brings attention to the long-term physical and emotional toll on victims like Ikram, whose determination to continue her education inspires many. It’s a stark reminder of the need for community vigilance and support for those affected by such tragedies. As Assistant District Attorney Brian Rodriguez noted, “Her life has not been and never will be the same since that night.”

District Attorney Donnelly added a chilling perspective on the case, saying, “Two years after he ambushed Nafiah and left her screaming in pain on her front lawn, he actually produced and uploaded a music video to YouTube boasting about throwing acid in a woman’s face. As unbelievable as it may seem, it is still up on YouTube.” Her words emphasize the audacity of Campbell’s actions post-crime.

Lessons to Learn

While no one can predict or fully prevent random acts of violence, there are lessons from this tragic event that can help individuals stay vigilant. It’s crucial to remember that crime can strike anyone, anywhere, and victim-blaming must be avoided at all costs. Nafiah Ikram did nothing to invite this horror, and her story reminds us to focus on prevention and support.

To enhance personal safety, consider these practical steps:

1. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in isolated areas like driveways or parking lots late at night,
2. Install security cameras or motion-sensor lights around your home to deter potential threats.
3. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, seek help or move to a safer location immediately.

Finally, community support is vital in the aftermath of such incidents. Reach out to local resources or law enforcement if you notice suspicious activity, and advocate for victims by amplifying their stories with compassion. While we can take steps to protect ourselves, the unpredictability of violence means we must also foster a culture of empathy over judgment.