Rapper Nelly, whose real name is Cornell Haynes II, will not be charged with drug possession following his arrest at a St. Louis-area casino this summer. St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell announced on Tuesday that they do not believe the circumstances of the case warrant pressing charges against the 49-year-old artist.
Nelly, a native of the area, was arrested in the early hours of August 7 at Hollywood Casino & Hotel in Maryland Heights, Missouri. The arrest occurred as Nelly was attempting to collect several jackpots he had won. A trooper at the casino informed Nelly that a warrant check was necessary for gamblers who win above a certain threshold, a claim disputed by Nelly's lawyer, Scott Rosenblum.
During the background check, it was discovered that Nelly had an outstanding warrant from December related to a 2018 citation for driving without proof of insurance. Subsequently, Nelly was arrested and searched, leading to the discovery of four ecstasy pills. The police had initially sought a felony charge for possession of a controlled substance.
Rosenblum confirmed that the insurance charge has since been resolved after Nelly provided proof of car insurance, resulting in its dismissal. The decision not to pursue drug charges against Nelly was made following a thorough review of the evidence by Bell's office.
Nelly, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is renowned for hits like 'Hot in Herre' and 'Just A Dream.' He has achieved four No. 1 singles and received nine Billboard Music Awards. In addition to his music career, Nelly has ventured into acting, appearing in various films and TV series.
Notably, Nelly won Grammy Awards in 2002 for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and Best Male Solo Rap Performance. His album 'Nellyville' was nominated for Best Rap Album and Album of the Year that same year. He also secured a Grammy the following year for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for 'Shake Ya Tailfeather.'
