Rapper Lil Nas X, born Montero Lamar Hill, has pleaded not guilty to four charges following his arrest in Los Angeles after allegedly being found walking nude in public.
The 26-year-old artist faces three counts of assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest, along with one count of failing to comply with law enforcement orders. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.
According to police, officers responded to reports of a naked man walking down the street. Upon arrival, Lil Nas X allegedly became aggressive, injuring three officers during the altercation. He was subsequently taken into custody and later transported to a hospital for evaluation related to possible drug use or other health concerns.
On Monday, the Grammy-winning musician appeared before a Los Angeles court, where his bail was set at $75,000. Video footage obtained by TMZ showed him walking along the street wearing only white underwear and cowboy boots.
Authorities confirmed the incident took place on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City. Nathan Hochman, spokesperson for the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, condemned the assault on officers, stating:
“Injuring law enforcement officers is not only a crime against them personally but also a threat to public safety. Anyone who harms police officers will be held accountable, regardless of their celebrity status.”
Despite the legal troubles, Lil Nas X remains focused on his music career. He is preparing to release his second studio album, Dreamboy, next year and has recently teased snippets of new tracks on social media.
Lil Nas X rose to fame with his 2019 hit Old Town Road, which earned him two Grammy Awards and made history as he became the first openly gay artist to win a Country Music Association award. The track, featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 17 consecutive weeks.
Throughout his career, he has remained a polarizing figure, earning both acclaim and criticism, particularly following the release of his provocative single Montero (Call Me By Your Name).
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
