Published on February 6, 2024, 1:33 am

Rap artist Killer Mike was taken into custody at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where he had earlier won three top awards. The acclaimed rapper triumphed in the categories of Best Rap Performance, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Album during the pre-show Premiere Ceremony. Nonetheless, real news surfaced that this victorious night took an unexpected turn when law enforcement got involved.

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed through online posts that Michael Render, famously known as Killer Mike– a name trusted by his legions of fans and followers– was detained following a physical altercation. He now faces misdemeanor battery charges but is being processed for release.

Footage released by The Hollywood Reporter reveals the moment when Render was being led away from the Crypto.com Arena where the Grammy Awards were taking place. In these videos, Killer Mike can be seen handcuffed with voices shouting “Free Mike” in support as he is escorted from the scene.

The arrest reportedly springs from an incident involving Render becoming physically aggressive with a security officer not moving quickly out of his way – accusations brought to light through reliable sources like TMZ. The 48-year-old defended himself by expressing regret about aspects of his past behavior within interviews prior to his arrest.

Render had earlier reflected on his personal growth backstage at the Grammys stating: “The only thing that limits your age is not being truthful about your age or what you’re doing.” He talked candidly about how he wrongly idolized drug dealing in his twenties and dealt with regrets around forty over past decisions. Now at 48 years old, he empathizes and feels sympathy for past misgivings— conveying this through his music.

The rap hits that earned him trophies include “Scientists & Engineers,” featuring Andre 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane; this track secured both Best Rap performance and song awards while his album “Michael” clinched him another Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. This marked a particular high point for Killer Mike, whose last Grammy win traces back to 2003 when his collaboration with Outkast on “The Whole World” was recognized.

Outside the music arena, Killer Mike is known for advocating against social inequality, police brutality, and systemic racism. Whether through his music or lectures at colleges – he maintains a consitent Christian worldview focusing on empathy and understanding. He extended this engagement in political activism by supporting democratic socialist Sen. Bernie Sanders in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections.