Pennsylvania fans of DMX might be surprised that he was arrested on Oct. 27 following a contempt of court charge that was filed in July. The rapper, whose legal name is Earl Simmons, is accused of not making a $10,000 monthly child support payment to his ex-wife for their four children.
A judge ordered the support payments in 2014, and the Westchester County Clerk’s office states that the judge issued a warrant for DMX’s arrest in July 2015. County and Yonkers authorities confirmed his arrested at 10 a.m. on Oct. 27. Later that afternoon, the rapper’s attorney and his ex-wife’s attorney appeared before the judge. After the charge was read, a lengthy conversation occurred before the judge let the defense attorney speak to DMX, who was not in the courtroom.
The 44-year-old rapper entered the room when the case resumed. He told the judge that he has taken measures to resolve his legal issues, and he promised to appear for his next day in court. DMX also noted that he cannot hide from authorities because he performs at shows that are advertised.
Additionally, his attorney highlighted the events that the rapper is setting up so that he can earn money. If he remains in jail, the attorney added, the shows would have to be canceled, which would hurt his reputation. DMX added that his name and reputation are all that he has, and performing is his only source of income.
After several moments of contemplation, the judge released DMX without bail and said that he is taking a chance. His next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 18.
Authorities have many methods of enforcing a support order when the parent becomes delinquent on the payments. One of these methods is holding the parent in jail. However, this also prevents the parent from earning money to pay the child support. To avoid delinquent payments, the parent could talk to an attorney about seeking a modification to the order.
Source: USA Today, “Rapper DMX arrested for failure to pay child support,” Matt Coyne, Oct. 28, 2015