Iconic rapper and entrepreneur Nelly, known for chart-topping hits like “Country Grammar” and “Hot In Herre,” was arrested early Wednesday morning in Maryland Heights, Missouri. The arrest stemmed from a warrant issued for a 2018 infraction related to lack of car insurance, which subsequently led to alleged drug possession charges.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that Nelly, born Cornell I. Haynes Jr., 49, was taken into custody around 4:45 a.m. The incident arose from a December 2023 warrant, which had been issued for an unresolved insurance violation, according to Nelly’s attorney, Scott Rosenblum.
Rosenblum provided further details in a statement released Wednesday evening, explaining that Nelly had been at a local casino, a venue he frequently visits and performs at. The attorney stated that Nelly had won several jackpots that evening, and as part of standard procedure, an officer supervised the money transfer.
During this process, a background check was conducted, allegedly mandated when a player wins over a certain amount. Rosenblum, however, contested this claim, pointing out that Nelly had won even larger sums a week prior without any background checks being conducted.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol clarified that their initial contact with Nelly was during an “identification verification in accordance with Missouri Gaming Commission regulations.”
Upon discovering the outstanding warrant, the officer arrested Nelly and conducted a search, during which four pills were found. A preliminary investigation identified the pills as ecstasy, leading to further complications in the case.
Rosenblum criticized the handling of the situation, arguing that Nelly was treated differently due to his celebrity status. He stated, “Under similar circumstances, assuming there was an old warrant without any notice to the individual for no proof of insurance, any other citizen would have been told to address it and allowed to go on their way.”
The attorney also emphasized that Nelly regularly undergoes extensive background checks, including FBI screenings, due to his international travel, and no warrants had surfaced prior to this incident. Rosenblum expressed confidence that the case would be resolved in Nelly’s favor and announced plans to request an inquiry into the officer’s conduct.
Following the arrest, Nelly was transported to the Maryland Heights Police Department and released shortly thereafter. The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that formal charges for possession of a controlled substance have been submitted to the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Despite the legal troubles, many members of the St. Louis community have expressed their support for Nelly, focusing on his contributions to music and his legacy. “Maybe we should look past it, because we all do stupid things sometimes,” said local resident Jomia Johnson, reflecting a sentiment shared by others.