DMX has filed for bankruptcy, less than a week after his latest DUI arrest.
According to the Wall Street Journal , the New York native filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Monday in Manhattan bankruptcy court. The petition lists $1 million to $10 million in debt and less than $50,000 in assets.
The 42-year-old also owes $1.24 million in child support, as well as $21,000 on an auto lease.
The rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, was arrested last week in South Carolina for drunk driving. But a statement released on his behalf said that he was actually charged for driving without a license . He was released after posting $1,235 in bail.
“Allegations about DMX being arrested for drunk driving are false. He was arrested early this morning but quickly released,” the statement said. “X was given a breathalyzer test and easily passed it. He is back at his home in South Carolina and we are continuing our focus on his upcoming album and acting roles.”
DMX was also arrested for driving without a license in February.
Domenick Nati, a representative for DMX, said that the rapper’s previous managers didn’t make his child support payments, and that his “large amount of unpaid child support” prevented him from getting a passport. According to the State Department, you can’t get a passport if you owe $2,500 or more in child support.
“DMX’s financial strains have been inhibiting his career for several years. Poor financial management by prior representation have caused him to be ineligible to retain a passport,” Nati said. “The purpose of this bankruptcy filing is for reorganization so he can perform for his fans oversees [sic]. We are currently planning a tour in Europe and Africa for the fall of 2013.”
DMX has sold over 30 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling rappers of all time.
Are you surprised that DMX has filed for bankruptcy?