"During the verification process, Haynes was found to have an active warrant for his arrest from the Maryland Heights Police Department and was arrested without incident," the statement continued. "During a search of his person incident to the arrest, Haynes was found to be in possession of four pills. A preliminary investigation tentatively identified the pills as Ecstasy."
The "Hot in Herre" and "Air Force Ones" rapper was held at Maryland Heights Police Department and has since been released, Missouri State Highway Patrol records show.
In a statement from Nelly's attorney, Scott Rosenblum, he said the arrest "was targeted by an overzealous, out of line officer" and clarified that he was "not charged with drug possession."
"He was arrested for 'No Proof of Insurance' from 2018 on a warrant issued December 2023 that he received no notice," Rosenblum said in the statement.
"After winning several jackpots at a venue where Mr. Haynes frequently visits and entertains at its amphitheater, instead of just supervising the transfer of Mr. Haynes' winnings, this officer felt compelled to needlessly run a check for warrants," the statement continued. "The officer informed Mr. Haynes a background check was mandated when a player won over a certain amount; Mr. Haynes knew this to be untrue as he had won several jackpots for similar or greater amounts including one just a week prior without incident or a background check."
