The Brooklyn rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine has been making headlines lately with a hefty criminal record, and while he’s been able to dodge most of the charges, his latest arrest could land him in prison – for life.
Back in 2015, the rapper, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, was charged with a sex crime for “use of a child in a sexual performance.” Since then, he was re-arrested for allegedly chocking a 16-year old in Houston earlier this year. He bailed on a show in Washington D.C. last month, owing the promoters $300,00, and two of his past shows have been cancelled due to his recent legal history.
This past weekend, he fired his entire crew, including his manager, booking agent, and publicist, and called-off the rest of his North America tour.
His most recent arrest stemmed from gang violence. According to Pitchfork, 6ix9ine has been indicted for charges including participating in a racketeering conspiracy, using and carrying firearms, participating in a robbery at gunpoint, and violent crime in aid of racketeering. The rapper, along with his ex-manager Shottie and associates Crippy, Ish, Mel Murda, and Fu Banga, were arrested in New York.
“As alleged in the indictment, this gang, which included platinum-selling rap artist Tekashi 6ix9ine, wreaked havoc on New York City, engaging in brazen acts of violence,” U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said in a statement. “Showing reckless indifference to others’ safety, members of the gang were allegedly involved in robberies and shootings, including a shooting inside the crowded Barclay’s Centre, and a shooting in which an innocent bystander was hit.”
If he is charged for both firearm charges, he will face a minimum of 32 years in prison, or a maximum life sentence. At his arraignment, he was denied bail by the presiding judge, who stated he “poses a danger to the community” and “would still be able to direct acts of violence by telephone” if he was put on house arrest. He is currently in custody pending trial.
