After a Tuesday night out, Atlanta-based rapper T.I. attempted to re-enter his gated community home but realized that he’d misplaced his keys. Apparently the security guard wasn’t interested in letting him into his home, and an altercation occurred, which ended up with T.I. being arrested at 4:30 a.m. Wednesday.
According to the Associated Press, T.I. (born Clifford Harris) was hit with disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and simple assault charges. Before his arrest, T.I. attempted to contact a friend, who came out to assist but also ended up being arrested because of an outstanding warrant.
Harris’ attorney, Steve Sadow, released the following statement Wednesday afternoon:
Tip was wrongfully arrested early this morning when he attempted to gain entrance into his gated community - where his wife “Tiny” and his family reside. The guard was sound asleep when Tip arrived at the guardhouse. It took Tip some time to wake up the sleeping guard. Tip clearly identified himself and sought entry. The guard refused entry. Tip was in contact with “Tiny” by phone and “Tiny” confirmed that Tip should be let in immediately. The guard continued to refuse entry without justification. Words were exchanged and apparently the guard and/or a supervisor called the police. When the police arrived, they were not interested in hearing Tip’s side of the story and wrongfully chose to end the situation by arresting Tip.
The Henry County Police Department says that the rapper was released from jail about 8 a.m. Wednesday after posting the $2,250 bond. He did not appear before a judge.
DISCUSSION
What an odd relationship. You’re close enough to this person for him to be the first person you call for “help,” but not close enough to know that he has warrants???
That part aside, there HAS to be an alternative ID verification process for situations like these, right? This smells all kinds of wrong for that security guard.