The rapper was arrested for second degree rape charges and released shortly after
Nelly was arrested on Saturday morning (7 October) after a woman called emergency services to file a rape allegation. She reported that the rapper had raped her in his tour bus parked outside a Walmart in Washington, which allegedly happened at 3.48am (EDT), or 8.48am (BST), following a concert near Seattle.
Nelly was released shortly after his arrest and has since issued a statement online. “I am completely innocent,” he tweeted. “I am confident that once the facts are looked at, it will be very clear that I am the victim of a false allegation.”
He apologised to his “loved ones for the embarrassment” and thanked his fans for their “unwavering support” on Twitter. His allegation is currently “pending further investigation”.
Nelly’s lawyer told TMZ, “Nelly is the victim of a completely fabricated allegation. Our initial investigation, clearly establishes the allegation is devoid of credibility and is motivated by greed and vindictiveness. I am confident, once the scurrilous accusation is thoroughly investigated, there will be no charges. Nelly is prepared to pursue all all legal avenues to redress any damage caused by this clearly false allegation.”
Manager Juliette Harris told USA Today via email that the artist cancelled his Saturday show in Ridgefield, Washington. He is currently on the Smooth Stadium Tour with country duo Florida Georgia Line.
Read Nelly’s series of tweets below.
Let me say that I am beyond shocked that I have been targeted with this false allegation. I am completely innocent. I am confident that once the facts are looked at , it will be very clear that I am the victim of a false allegation.
— Nelly_Mo (@Nelly_Mo) October 7, 2017
I do want to apologize to my loved ones for the embarrassment and for putting myself in a situation where I could be victimized by this false and defaming allegation.
— Nelly_Mo (@Nelly_Mo) October 7, 2017
I also want to thank my fans for their unwavering support. They know me. I assure you I will be vindicated. And I assure you, I will pursue every legal option to address this defaming claim. Thank you
— Nelly_Mo (@Nelly_Mo) October 7, 2017
In other words y’all know damm well I ain’t do no dumm S^*t like this..!! Love ..!!!!
— Nelly_Mo (@Nelly_Mo) October 7, 2017
To be absolutely clear. I have not been charged with a crime therefore no bail was required. I was released , pending further investigation.
— Nelly_Mo (@Nelly_Mo) October 7, 2017
(via TMZ)