Elephant Man Arrested for Rape: Reggae Star Charged in Jamaica
Reggae star Elephant Man has been charged with rape. Elephant Man, real name is O'Neil Bryan, was arrested earlier this week in Jamaica.
Popular abroad, Elephant Man has had his share of U.S. successes. His 2003 song "Pon De River" was an international hit. He was also previously featured on tracks with Wyclef Jean, Twista, Lil John, and Busta Rhymes.
A 31-year-old woman filed a report with the Jamaican Sexual Offenses and Child Abuse Department.
Her claim was investigated, and the evidence pointed toward Elephant Man. The rape allegedly occurred earlier this month at the reggae star's St. Andrew home.
Elephant Man was released from prison on $400,000 bail. The bail was set in Jamaican currency. That's roughly $4,600 U.S. dollars, according to BET.
He was charged with grievous sexual assault and rape. The reggae star is facing previous charges of stealing electricity.
Granted, this case did not occur in the U.S. But if it did, Elephant Man would likely be facing similar criminal charges. Rape and sexual assault are against the law. Specific statutes would vary depending on the state where the crime was committed. And like in Jamaica, it's possible that a defendant accused of rape can make bail and be released from custody while awaiting trial.
Will Elephant Man's rape charges stick? It's up to the Jamaican justice system to decide his fate. The star, otherwise known as O'Neil Bryan, is scheduled for a court appearance on May 24, 2012.
Related Resources:
- Elephant Man arrested on suspicion of rape (Digital Spy)
- Rape (FindLaw)
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