Grammy Award-winning rapper Killer Mike, known offstage as Michael Santiago Render, will not face charges following his detention at the Grammy Awards earlier this year. The incident occurred after a dispute with a security guard outside Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office spokesperson Ivor Pine confirmed that Killer Mike has completed the office’s hearing process, including fulfilling a community service requirement, and no charges will be filed. This decision marks the resolution of the legal proceedings stemming from the Grammy night altercation.
Killer Mike, who had just won three Grammy Awards for Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Album for “Michael,” immediately asserted his innocence after the incident. He attributed the altercation to what he described as overzealous security measures. Following the incident, he expressed confidence that he would be cleared of any wrongdoing.
In a statement released shortly after the Grammy Awards, Killer Mike detailed the confusion surrounding entry points and emphasized his team’s belief in his eventual exoneration. He characterized the incident as a misunderstanding exacerbated by crowded conditions backstage.
During a subsequent appearance on The View, Killer Mike reflected on the incident, noting the exuberance of winners and the crowded backstage environment as contributing factors. He maintained a positive outlook, describing the encounter as a learning experience and emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity in challenging situations.
The altercation, which TMZ initially reported and released footage of, allegedly occurred when Killer Mike attempted to bypass security personnel who requested to see his tickets for entry to the telecast. Despite the initial turmoil, Killer Mike expressed gratitude for the support he received and encouraged focusing on positivity amidst the incident’s aftermath.