Rapper Kevin Gates accused of kicking woman during performance; charged with battery

LAKELAND, Fla. – Rapper Kevin Gates is facing a battery charge in Florida after authorities say he kicked a woman during a performance.

Lakeland police on Tuesday filed the charge against Gates — whose legal name is Kevin Jerome Gilyard. Officers have not been able to locate the 29-year-old New Orleans native.

Police say Gates was performing at Rumours Night Club on Friday when an 18-year-old woman reached onto the stage and touched Gates’ leg. The woman told officers that Gates turned and kicked her in the stomach.

Police say the battery was captured on a cellphone video as well as the club’s surveillance video.

Emails seeking comment from Gates’ representatives weren’t immediately returned.

Records show Gates was convicted of aggravated battery with a vehicle last year in Chicago.

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