LOS ANGELES (AP) — Grammy-winning rapper and activist Killer Mike was unexpectedly arrested at the Grammys on Sunday following the success of receiving three Grammy awards, his first in over two decades. The incident occured after some celebratory moments for him at the Grammys’ Premiere Ceremony, where he quickly won his awards.
According to police spokesperson Officer Mike Lopez, the altercation that led to Killer Mike’s arrest took place around 4 p.m. inside Crypto.com Arena. He was booked on a misdemeanor charge but was released on his own recognizance at 8:37 p.m. and is set to appear in court on Feb. 29 in Los Angeles.
The rapper, known by the name Michael Render, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, while backstage during the event, the 48-year-old rapper expressed his thoughts, saying, “The only thing that limits your age is not being truthful about your age or what you’re doing.”
Killer Mike’s first Grammy win came after being awarded for best rap performance for “Scientists & Engineers,” which also won best rap song. Additionally, he won best rap album for “Michael.” The rapper’s last Grammy win was in 2003, and he is widely known for his work as a social-political activist and his impact on the hip-hop community.
As a member of Run the Jewels, Killer Mike has released four critically acclaimed albums alongside producer El-P and has been an outspoken advocate for issues affecting the Black community. His work as a social-political activist has included speaking out on inequality for Black people, race relations, and his support for Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2016 U.S. presidential campaign. He also hosted Netflix’s “Trigger Warning with Killer Mike,” a 2019 documentary series addressing issues affecting the Black community.