Lil Nas X Facing Four Felony Charges After Los Angeles Altercation with Police; Walking Nearly Naked on Ventura Boulevard
LOS ANGELES, CA – Rapper and pop star Lil Nas X, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, has been formally charged with four felony counts in Los Angeles following a bizarre and troubling encounter with police last week that began with him walking nearly naked down a busy street.
The events unfolded early in the morning on August 21, when officers responding to calls found the 26-year-old artist on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City wearing only underwear and boots. Authorities suspected a possible overdose and attempted to intervene. According to reports, Lil Nas X allegedly became aggressive and charged at officers during the encounter, leading to a struggle in which at least three law enforcement members were injured.
Police transported him to a nearby hospital for evaluation before booking him at Valley Jail in Van Nuys later that day.
Initially, the case involved misdemeanor allegations of battery and obstruction, but prosecutors have now significantly escalated the matter. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed four felony charges, including battery with injury on a police officer. The updated counts reflect injuries sustained by multiple officers during the scuffle.
If convicted, the rapper could face several years in prison. His arraignment is expected in the coming weeks.
The hospitalization element of the case has fueled speculation about the entertainer’s health and possible substance use, though no official details have been released regarding test results or treatment. What remains clear is that the incident was serious enough to prompt both medical intervention and a rapid upgrade in criminal charges.
Lil Nas X was released from the hospital before being booked into custody, and bond proceedings have not yet been disclosed.
Lil Nas X rose to fame in 2019 with his viral hit “Old Town Road,” which broke chart records and made him one of the most recognizable figures in modern pop and hip-hop. Known for his bold performances and outspoken personality, he has maintained a strong presence in music and entertainment over the past several years. The felony charges now cast a shadow over his career at a time when he had been preparing for upcoming projects and live appearances.
Criminal Record & Legal Outlook
At this time, there are no reports of Lil Nas X having a prior criminal history, and public records suggest this is his first encounter with the law. If that holds true, it could work in his favor during court proceedings. First-time offenders often see felony charges negotiated down through plea agreements, particularly in cases where no previous convictions exist. While the seriousness of the accusations means prosecutors are taking the matter firmly, the absence of a prior record may provide him with an opportunity to reduce potential penalties or seek alternative sentencing.
Timeline of Events
- August 21, 2025 – Early Morning: Lil Nas X spotted walking nearly nude on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, Los Angeles. Officers respond and suspect a possible overdose.
- August 21, 2025 – Hospitalization: Police transport him to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation.
- August 21, 2025 – Booking: After treatment, he is booked at Valley Jail in Van Nuys on misdemeanor charges of battery and obstruction.
- August 22–24, 2025: Reports circulate across major outlets about the unusual circumstances of his arrest, with speculation about health concerns.
- August 25, 2025: The Los Angeles County District Attorney upgrades the case to four felony counts, including battery with injury on a police officer.
Top Questions & Answers
Q: Does Lil Nas X have a prior criminal record?
A: No public records suggest he has a criminal history. This appears to be his first arrest.
Q: What are the felony charges against him?
A: He faces four felony counts, including battery with injury on a police officer, after allegedly injuring multiple officers during the encounter.
Q: Could he go to prison?
A: Yes, felony charges in California can carry prison time. However, as a first-time offender, he may have options for plea deals or reduced sentencing.
Q: Why was he hospitalized before being booked?
A: Officers suspected a possible overdose, so he was evaluated at a hospital before being transferred to jail.
Q: How will this affect his music career?
A: Pending legal outcomes, upcoming projects and public appearances could be delayed or canceled, and his professional reputation may be impacted.
Q: When will he appear in court?
A: An arraignment date has not yet been publicly released, but it is expected in the coming weeks.
