New York drug charges against rapper Desiigner are dropped

CP715333704
FILE - In this June 26, 2016 file photo, Desiigner performs "Panda" at the BET Awards in Los Angeles. Misdemeanor drug and menacing charges against rapper Desiigner, whose real name is Sidney Selby, have effectively been dropped less than three months after his arrest in New York. Police said in September that the performer waved a handgun during a road rage dispute while riding with friends in a hired car. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP, File)

NEW YORK – Misdemeanor drug and menacing charges against rapper Desiigner have effectively been dropped less than three months after his arrest in New York.

The rapper, whose real name is Sidney Selby, wasn’t in Manhattan Criminal Court on Tuesday when prosecutors agreed to have his case sealed.

Prosecutors and Selby’s lawyers agreed to an arrangement that generally leads to charges being dismissed if the defendant stays out of trouble for six months. But it’s unusual for a case to be sealed immediately.

Lawyer Stacey Richman says she’s happy Selby was exonerated.

Police said in September that the “Panda” performer waved a handgun during a road rage dispute while riding with friends in a hired car.

But the 19-year-old wasn’t charged with a gun crime. His lawyer said no gun was ever found.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles