It was reported on July 24 that a New York rapper who was accused of a violent crime involving drugs was facing additional charges for promoting prison contraband after allegedly getting a hold of a knife while he was at Rikers Island. It was believed his girlfriend was involved in providing him with the weapon.
A Bronx district attorney stated that, on July 21, the 20-year-old rapper’s 18-year-old girlfriend was seen removing what appeared to be a homemade knife from underneath her bra. She then reportedly handed it to the rapper. The rapper was then accused of lying about the incident to the court.
The rapper was ultimately charged with perjury and promoting prison contraband in addition to the drug charges that he was already facing. He entered a plea of not guilty to all of the charges. He was set to remain imprisoned at Rikers Island until his next court date in October. His girlfriend was also facing charges for promoting prison contraband and for possession of a weapon. She also pleaded not guilty to the charges.
A person who has been handed weapons charges could potentially be facing a long prison sentence and other serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, a criminal law attorney could attempt to seek evidence that the weapon in question did not belong to the defendant. The attorney could also potentially argue that the authorities did not properly follow procedures, which could in some cases result in reduced or dismissed charges and less severe penalties.
Source: NBC New York, “Brooklyn Rapper Bobby Shmurda Faces New Charges While Jailed at Rikers: DA“, July 24, 2015