Photo: Getty Images
Lil Nas X took some time out to speak to fans after his latest court appearance for his police battery case.
On Thursday, March 12, the troubled artist appeared before a judge at a courtroom in Van Nuys, Calif. According to Rolling Stone, Lil Nas X, born Montero Hill, was accompanied by his attorney, Christy O’Connor, who asked a judge for a brief delay to file a motion requesting to transfer his felony police battery case into an unspecified diversion program. After the judge ordered him to return to court next month, Lil Nas X provided a concise statement to his fans outside of the courthouse.
“All I wanted to say is to my fans, I really love, and I miss you, and I appreciate your support so much, and I can’t wait to be back hugging you guys,” the artist said before blowing a kiss. “You guys, have a good day.”
Lil Nas X was hit with four felony charges, including battery with injury on a police officer and resisting an executive officer, after he stripped naked while walking in the middle of the street in Ventura, Calif., last August. In response to calls from witnesses, police approached the artist and believed he was suffering from a drug overdose. That's when Lil Nas got completely naked and lunged at the officers.
He allegedly injured three of them, but was tased and subdued. The officers who responded to the incident reportedly suffered numerous injuries. One of the cops suffered an injury to their head, and another suffered a back sprain. Another cop alleged the artist hurt his hand. Lil Nas X was taken to a hospital before he was transferred to jail. He was later released on a $75,000 bond.
Lil Nas X faces up to five years in prison if convicted of the charges. His attorney is waiting for an “expert report” to support her upcoming motion for a diversion program. The diversion programs usually lead to charges being dropped if the defendant completes rehabilitation or specified treatment.