Rapper Silentó Sentenced to 30 Years for Cousin’s Killing
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Atlanta rapper Silentó, recognized for his 2015 viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” has been handed a 30-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to the shooting death of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III, in 2021 [[1]]. The DeKalb County court’s decision marks a somber turn for the artist, whose real name is Richard Hawk.
The Crime and Sentencing
silentó, 27, was sentenced for the aggravated manslaughter of Rooks and other charges related to the 2021 incident [[2]]. He pleaded guilty but mentally ill to voluntary manslaughter [[3]].
Rooks, 34, was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds to his face and leg in a Georgia suburb. A relative reported that Hawk and Rooks were last seen together in Hawk’s white BMW SUV, which was later captured on security footage fleeing the scene after gunshots were heard.
Did You Know? Bullet casings found at the scene matched a gun found on Silentó at the time of his arrest.
Silentó’s Rise to Fame
Before this tragic turn of events, Silentó achieved widespread fame with “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae).” Released while he was a junior at Redan High School,the song quickly became a global phenomenon,amassing over 1.9 billion views on YouTube.
Mental Health and Public Reaction
Following silentó’s arrest, his PR manager, Chanel hudson, released a statement highlighting the rapper’s struggles with mental health issues. She requested positive support and prayers for Silentó and his family during this difficult time.
Pro Tip: Mental health struggles can significantly impact individuals, and support is crucial during challenging times.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Silentó releases “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” achieving viral success. |
| January 21, 2021 | Frederick Rooks III is found shot dead. |
| February 1, 2021 | Silentó is arrested in connection with Rooks’s death. |
| 2025 | Silentó is sentenced to 30 years in prison. |
The sentencing brings a close to a case that has shocked fans and the music industry alike. The legal proceedings highlighted the tragic consequences of violence and mental health challenges.
What impact do you think this case will have on Silentó’s legacy?
How can the music industry better support artists facing mental health issues?
Evergreen Insights
The case of Silentó underscores the importance of mental health awareness and support within the entertainment industry. It also serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence. Historically, the intersection of fame, mental health, and legal troubles has been a recurring theme in the lives of many artists. Resources like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer support and information for individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
FAQ
- Why was Silentó sentenced to prison?
- Silentó was sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III [[2]].
- What charges did Silentó face?
- Silentó pleaded guilty but mentally ill to voluntary manslaughter and other charges related to the 2021 shooting death of his cousin [[3]].
- When did the shooting involving Silentó occur?
- The shooting occurred on January 21, 2021. Silentó was arrested on February 1, 2021, in connection with the death of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III.
- what is Silentó known for?
- Silentó, whose real name is Richard Hawk, is best known for his hit song “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” which became a viral sensation in 2015 [[1]].
- Where did the shooting involving Silentó take place?
- The shooting took place in a suburb of Georgia. Frederick Rooks III was found with gunshot wounds to his face and leg.
- How old was Silentó’s cousin, Frederick Rooks III?
- Silentó’s cousin, Frederick Rooks III, was 34 years old at the time of his death.
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