Rapper Jadakiss Arrested On Gun Charge

(October 8, 2006) — Rapper Jadakiss was arrested on suspicion of weapon possession after a traffic stop early Saturday, his second arrest on gun charges since 2004, authorities said.

Jadakiss, whose real name is Jason Phillips, was one of four people inside the car, Detective Sgt. Joseph Pietropaolo said. He said all four were charged with criminal possession of a weapon because a loaded handgun was found inside the vehicle.

Jadakiss, a Yonkers native, released his first solo album, “Kiss the Game Goodbye,” in 2001. His most recent album was “Kiss of Death,” and he had a hit single “U Make Me Wanna” that featured Mariah Carey. He also performed with Jennifer Lopez on her hit “Jenny From the Block.”

Jadakiss sparked controversy in 2004 with his song “Why,” which contained lyrics asking “Why did Bush knock down the towers?” He said later it was a reference to the president’s failure to stop terrorism.

In July 2004, he was arrested on marijuana and gun possession charges in North Carolina. Police said they found less than an ounce of marijuana and two loaded .45-caliber pistols in his vehicle.He reached a plea agreement the next year on the North Carolina misdemeanor charges and paid a $900 fine.

There was no telephone listing for the rapper in Yonkers, and his Web site listed no contact numbers.