Rapper Nelly Arrested for Suspected Drug Possession at St. Louis-Area Casino

Grammy-winning rapper Nelly was arrested at a St. Louis-area casino on Wednesday for suspected drug possession. The artist, who also had an outstanding warrant, was found with ecstasy pills and is awaiting further legal proceedings. Rapper and actor Cornell Haynes II, known professionally as Nelly, was arrested early Wednesday morning at the Hollywood Casino and Hotel in Maryland Heights, Missouri, on suspicion of illegal drug possession. The 49-year-old St. Louis native was apprehended by Missouri Highway Patrol officers, who discovered four ecstasy pills on his person, according to an online arrest report.

The arrest occurred at 4:45 a.m., and Nelly was held in custody by the Maryland Heights Police Department. In addition to the drug-related charges, the rapper was found to have an outstanding warrant for failing to provide proof of insurance for a vehicle, a previous charge that had not been resolved.

At the time of reporting, Nelly’s representatives had not commented on the arrest, though his attorney was expected to issue a statement later on Wednesday evening. Efforts to reach the Maryland Heights Police Department for further information were not immediately successful.

Nelly’s arrest marks another legal challenge in his career, following previous drug-related charges in 2015 and an arrest in 2017 after allegations of sexual assault were made against him. Despite these incidents, Nelly has remained a prominent figure in the music industry.

Nelly’s illustrious career includes winning three Grammy Awards, notably for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and Best Male Solo Rap Performance in 2002. His album “Nellyville” was a major success, earning multiple Grammy nominations, including Best Rap Album and Album of the Year. In 2003, he secured another Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for the hit “Shake Ya Tailfeather.”

Beyond his music, Nelly has ventured into acting, with roles in films like “The Longest Yard” and a reality TV show on BET that highlighted his family life. Recently, he completed a tour with pop icon Janet Jackson and announced his engagement to singer and actor Ashanti in April, with the couple expecting their first child together.

Nelly’s arrest has undoubtedly cast a shadow over his personal and professional life, but his legacy as a trailblazer in the rap industry remains undeniable.