Rapper Jay Rock was arrested on Thursday evening in Los Angeles, near the Watts public housing complex where he grew up. The Grammy Award-winning artist, whose real name is Johnny Reed McKinzie, was taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department around 5:20 p.m. He faces charges related to illegal firearm possession.
According to police, McKinzie was arrested in the 13000 block of East 115th Street. He was booked on suspicion of violating California Penal Code Section 29800(a)(1). This law prohibits individuals with certain felony convictions or active felony warrants from owning firearms. If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison.
Reports indicate that McKinzie’s troubles began earlier in the day when he was initially apprehended for trespassing and drinking in public at the Nickerson Gardens complex. After running away from his vehicle, police discovered a firearm inside it. A video from the incident shows McKinzie questioning the police about what he was drinking at the time.
Jay Rock gained fame for his music, winning a Grammy in 2019 for the song "King’s Dead," which featured Kendrick Lamar, Future, and James Blake. In addition to his musical achievements, he was honored with the key to his hometown of Watts in May 2019, recognizing his contributions to the community.
Details regarding his next court appearance have not yet been made available.