Rap music legend, Coolio, was recently arrested related to an April 1, 2013 incident in which his child's mother, Anabella Chatman, claims she was a victim of Domestic Violence. Chatman accuses Coolio (Artis Ivey, Jr.) of physically assaulting her and even striking her with his vehicle during the domestic dispute at the home the two shared. The rapper has reportedly countered Chatman's domestic violence allegations with a claim of Self Defense.
Coolio is no stranger to the legal system. Just over a year ago, in March 2012, Coolio and his son Grtis Ivey were arrested in Las Vegas and detained at the Clark County Detention Center. Coolio was picked up on two active bench warrants resulting from traffic violations, while his son Grtis faced multiple felony charges including Robbery with a deadly weapon and first degree kidnapping. Ultimately, Grtis plead guilty to felony robbery charges in exchange for the other felony charges against him being dropped by the Las Vegas District Attorney's Office
Typically, self-defense may be used as a defense strategy by individuals charged with a Violent Crime. Violent crimes where a claim of self-defense claim might apply include homicide, assault, battery, robbery, sexual assault, resisting arrest, and domestic violence. If a claim of self-defense is successfully asserted, the defendant can be found not guilty because their actions are excused because theie use of force was necessary for their personal protection.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for domestic violence or any other violent crime, it is important to contact a knowledgeable and experienced Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyer right away. The Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyers at Brown Law Offices can assist you in analyzing the facts of your case, identifying applicable defenses (such as self-defense) and developing the most aggressive defense strategy possible to protect your legal rights.