Rapper Rich Boy Arrested After Altercation w/ Parents: Local Community Concerned About His Mental Health
Rapper Rich Boy Arrested After Altercation w/ Parents: Local Community Concerned About His Mental Health
Rich Boy returns to the spotlight in handcuffs more than 16 years after releasing his single hit “Throw Some D’s On It.”
According to reports, the rapper, whose real name is Marece Benjamin Richards, had an altercation with his parents that led to his arrest on Sept. 30 in Mobile, Alabama. He was booked on two third-degree domestic violence charges that described harassment and assault.
While there is no word on what led up to the incident, sources say there is a concerning video of the altercation circulating on social media. In one clip, Rich Boy can be seen holding a pair of long-handled gardening shears. Sources say the rapper’s unkempt appearance was far from his early 2000s pretty-boy swag.
Rich Boy’s look and unusual behavior had some members of the Mobile hip-hop community concerned for his mental health and well-being,
Elric Jerel Simon said,
“It’s crazy … when you up [people] be quiet as a mouse. But any sign of you being down or in a different space, your name will ring like a church bell. Prayers up and love to my bro Rich.”
Rapper Bianca Clarke posted on social media, saying,
“Sending love to our hometown hero!”
Another fan wrote,
“I love Rich Boy! He was always so nice when he came to visit LeFlore my freshman year and when he came in to eat at Wintzells. I pray that he gets the help he needs. There’s nothing funny about it.”
Although the 39-year-old has kept a low profile since his biggest hit left the charts, he’s had one ongoing civil case. In 2008, Rich Boy and his brother Irvin O. Richards Jr. pleaded guilty to attempted assault. That arrest stemmed from a 2005 incident in which gunshots were fired from their vehicle, resulting in someone else’s injury. As a result, Rich Boy’s brother was sentenced to ten years while Rich Boy received probation.
Rich Boy caught the charge just as his career was about to take off. In 2006, his single “Throw Some D’s” featuring Polow Da Don went to No. 6 on Billboard’s Hot 100. His self-titled debut album, “Rich Boy,” went to No. 3 on the Billboard 2000 in 2007 and topped the U.S. rap chart. The official remix, produced by Lil’ Jon, featured André 3000, Jim Jones, Nelly, Murphy Lee, and The Game, the last track of the album.
There is no word on Rich Boy’s release after his most recent arrest.
What do you think about Rich Boy’s arrest? What do you think may have led to the altercation with his parents? Tell us what you think in the comments below.