Rapper Lil Wayne Busted for Drugs
Feds stopped rapper's tour bus in Arizona; allegedly found drugs, cash and guns.
Jan. 23, 2008— -- Rapper Lil Wayne has been arrested in Yuma County, Ariz., on drug charges, law enforcement sources told ABC News.
The rapper, 25, whose real name is Dwayne Michael Carter, was traveling in his tour bus near Dateland, Ariz., Tuesday, when it was stopped at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Interstate 8.
Around 11:30 p.m., a Border Patrol dog signaled the possible presence of drugs. The bus was directed to a secondary inspection lane, where it was consensually searched.
Agents reported finding 105 grams of marijuana, 29 grams of cocaine, 41 grams of ecstasy and miscellaneous drug paraphernalia on board. They also found $22,000 in cash on the bus.
Carter was arrested by Drug Enforcement Administration agents. Eleven other people were also riding in the bus.
The U.S. attorney in Arizona declined to prosecute the rap star and his companions, and referred it to the state of Arizona.
Carter faces local charges for alleged possession of cocaine, ecstasy and drug paraphernalia, while two other passengers face narcotics charges.
His publicist at Universal Records did not immediately return voice or e-mail messages seeking comment on the case.
The rapper was held in the Yuma County jail until he paid his bond and was released. Bond was set at $10,185, and Carter will have to appear in court Friday at 10:00 a.m. in Wellton.
Three firearms were also found on the bus. Two guns were legally registered to passengers on the bus. One pistol belonged to Carter. DEA is working with Florida authorities regarding possible violations regarding that firearm.
Carter's sixth solo album, "Tha Carter III," is slated for a February release. He made his recording debut in 1995, at the age of 12. At 16, Carter started his solo career with 1999's "The Block is Hot."