Major Controversies Surrounding Busta Rhymes: A Detailed Timeline

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Busta Rhymes.

Busta Rhymes, born Trevor George Smith Jr., is an American rapper and actor known for his unique and energetic delivery. The name Busta Rhymes was given to him by Chuck D of Public Enemy. A highly respected figure in hip-hop, he has garnered significant critical acclaim throughout his career. Notably, he has received 12 Grammy Award nominations, highlighting his impact and artistry in the music industry, despite not winning any.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

December 1998: Arrest for Gun Possession

In December 1998, Busta Rhymes was arrested and charged with possession of an unregistered gun during a traffic stop in New York City.

October 6, 2000: Probation for Gun Possession

On October 6, 2000, Busta Rhymes received five years' probation after pleading guilty to possessing an unregistered gun earlier in the year.

August 20, 2006: Arrested for Assault

On August 20, 2006, Busta Rhymes was arrested and arraigned for third-degree assault after allegedly attacking a man in New York City who spat on his car after the AmsterJam Music Festival on Randall's Island.

October 24, 2006: Court Appearance for Weapons Possession

On October 24, 2006, Busta Rhymes appeared at Manhattan Criminal Court where the district attorney's office attempted to amend previous charges against him to include weapons possession for a machete found in his car. The judge refused to add the charge.

February 20, 2007: Rejection of Plea Deal

On February 20, 2007, Busta Rhymes refused a plea deal offered by the prosecutor's office for the assault of his former driver, Edward Hatchett, which would have entailed jail time and pleading guilty to multiple assaults. A judge offered an alternative option, including community service, youth lectures, anger management, and probation.

May 3, 2007: Arrested for Driving Violations

On May 3, 2007, Busta Rhymes was arrested in Manhattan for driving without a license and driving while impaired.

March 18, 2008: Sentenced for Driving Under the Influence

On March 18, 2008, a judge in New York City sentenced Busta Rhymes to three years of probation, community service, fines, and enrollment in a drunken driving program related to his arrest in May 2007.

September 25, 2008: Entry to UK Refused

On September 25, 2008, Busta Rhymes was temporarily refused entry to the UK due to "unresolved convictions".

November 2008: Release and Controversy Surrounding "Arab Money"

In November 2008, after the release of "Arab Money" as a single, DJ Dany Neville and The Narcicyst responded with a reply, and Busta Rhymes later apologized for the controversial content.

May 19, 2009: Release of Back on My B.S.

On May 19, 2009, Busta Rhymes released his eighth studio album, "Back on My B.S.", through Universal Motown, which was later banned in the United Arab Emirates due to controversial content.

2010: Defense of "Arab Money" by Ron Browz

In 2010, the producer of "Arab Money", Ron Browz, defended Busta Rhymes, stating that the track was misunderstood and meant as a compliment.

2018: Plagiarism Accusation

In 2018, Busta Rhymes was accused of plagiarism by Bernardo Lanzetti and his group Acqua Fragile, who alleged that Rhymes' 2001 song "Genesis" used an uncredited sample of the group's "Cosmic Mind Affair".

January 10, 2025: Assault Arrest

On January 10, 2025, Busta Rhymes was involved in assaulting one of his assistants, Dashiel Gables, after an argument in Brooklyn. He was arrested and charged with third-degree assault.