Coolio Misses Concert Due to Firearms-Related Arrest

Scott Legato/Getty Images Entertainment
Scott Legato/Getty Images Entertainment
Scott Legato/Getty Images Entertainment

Around 11 a.m. Saturday, Rapper Coolio was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) when the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) discovered a loaded firearm in his carryon bag. After the initial investigation, it was learned that the bag belonged to Coolio’s bodyguard, who had through TSA screening after the music legend had already boarded the plane.

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The stolen and loaded gun, however, belonged to Coolio.

“Upon arrival airport police immediately took possession of a carry-on bag in the X-ray screening belt,” airport police officer Alicia Hernandez said. “They also detained a 39-year-old man who claimed to own the bag.

“Further investigation revealed that the bag contained items belonging to one of the suspect’s traveling companions who left the screening area and boarded an aircraft for departure,” she said.

Instead of heading off to Dallas, where he was scheduled to perform later that night, both Coolio and his bodyguard were arrested and taken to the Pacific Station. The bodyguard was released, but 53-year-old Artis Leon Ivey, Jr. of Las Vegas (aka: Coolio) was booked at the Los Angeles Police Department’s Pacific Station for possession of a firearm by a felon.

The rapper’s bail was set at $37,808 which was swiftly posted by around 4:30 p.m.

Following the incident, Coolio ate at P.F. Changs, an Asian restaurant chain. During his dinner, the rapper recorded a video statement and addressed the situation.

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“Just wanted to say something about the little misunderstanding at the airport today. Everything’s fine, I’m fine,” the rapper said in the video. “I don’t know what’s going to be the result of this in the future but for now, I’m fine and I appreciate everyone’s concern.”

Coolio also shared the video on his social media accounts.

 

 

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