Rapper Nelly arrested for suspected drug possession while at Missouri casino
FILE - Rapper Nelly attends the YWCA-GLA 2022 Phenomenal Women Award celebration honoring first responders at SoFi Stadium on June 14, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Credit: Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)
The Brief
- Rapper and actor Nelly was arrested while inside a casino in Missouri.
- He’s suspected of having ecstasy in his possession when he was arrested.
- Nelly also had an outstanding warrant on a previous charge of not having proof of insurance for a vehicle.
Rapper Nelly was arrested early Wednesday after he was suspected of possessing ecstasy while he was at the Hollywood Casino and Hotel in Missouri.
The 49-year-old, whose real name is Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., was taken into custody by Maryland Heights police at 4:45 a.m., according to an online Highway Patrol arrest report.
Nelly was allegedly found with pills in his possession and had an outstanding warrant on a previous charge of not having proof of insurance for a vehicle.
Who is Nelly?
Nelly, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is known for hits like "Hot in Herre" and "Ride Wit Me."
He’s had four No. 1 hits and received nine Billboard Music Awards. He recently wrapped up a series of performances with Janet Jackson as a special guest on her tour.
He won Grammy Awards in 2002 for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and Best Male Solo Rap Performance, and his "Nellyville" was nominated that year for both Best Rap Album and Album of the Year. He also won a Grammy the following year for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group the following year for "Shake Ya Tailfeather."
Beyond his recording career, Nelly has appeared in a number of films and television series, including the sports film "The Longest Yard" and a BET reality series featuring his family.
The artist announced in April he was engaged to singer and actor Ashanti and the pair is expecting a baby.
The Source
The Associated Press contributed to this report.