Rapper Joey Bada$$ Arrested For Assault In Australia

Brooklyn rapper Joey Bada$$ was arrested in Australia for allegedly decking a security guard at a music festival.

The 19-year-old leader of the Bed-Stuy-based collective Pro Era was about to take the stage at The Falls Music and Arts Festival in New South Wales Friday when a security guard stopped him to check his credentials, Complex reported.

Bada$$, whose real name is Jo-Vaughn Jalani Virginie, punched the man in the face, breaking his nose and causing other injuries, authorities said.

The rapper took the stage for an hourlong set, but was arrested afterward.

He was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and released on bail after a court appearance on Saturday, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The Falls festival was held in Byron, on Australia's east coast, from Dec. 30 to Jan. 3.

Bada$$ has been touring through Australia and New Zealand ahead of the release of his debut album, B4 Da $$, on Jan. 20.

A rep told Complex, "There was a misunderstanding with security at the Byron Falls Festival show, which resulted in charges being laid by NSW Police.

"After fully cooperating with Police, Joey was granted bail and entered a plea of not guilty to the charge."

Bada$$ himself hasn't comment on the alleged scuffle, but appeared to refer to it in cryptic tweet Monday.

"The crucification of my image has already begun. Remember don't believe everything you see or hear. They build u up to tear you down," he wrote.

SOURCE