Coolio Facing Prison

8 months ago 11th Mar 12:01

Coolio has been charged with possession of cocaine, battery and possession of a crack pipe.

The US rapper - real name Artis Leon Ivey - was arrested last Friday (06.03.09) at Los Angeles International Airport after police searched his bags and allegedly found the drug and smoking device.

When he was stopped, Coolio allegedly grabbed one of the luggage screening staff's arms in a desperate bid to prevent the search, resulting in him being accused of battery.

The 'Gangsta's Paradise' rapper was formally charged yesterday (10.03.09) and could face up to three years in prison if convicted on the felony charge of possessing cocaine crack cocaine. The other two offences are classed as misdemeanours.

During his recent appearance on UK reality TV show 'Celebrity Big Brother' Coolio frequently made references to his gangster past, including boasts about how many guns he owned.

He was also warned by the show's producers to curtail his aggressive behaviour, which included using the word n****r, reducing female housemates to tears and inciting violence.

Coolio, 45, is presently released on bail, but due to appear in court for an arraignment hearing on April 3.