27-year-old rapper Silentó, who broke out in 2015 with his viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” has begun his 30-year prison sentence, and a mugshot reveals that he’s starting his time behind bars with a shaved head.
As reported by TMZ, the rapper was processed by the Georgia Department of Corrections this week to start serving his 30-year prison for the 2021 murder of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III. In the mugshot, which can be seen below, Silentó is sporting a shaved head that leaves him looking almost unrecognisable from the time of his viral hit. It’s unclear if it was his decision or imposed on him by the correctional facility.
His earlier possible release date, as listed on Georgia state records, is January 2051.
In February 2021, Silentó, real name Ricky Lamar Hawk, was arrested for the fatal shooting of his 34-year-old cousin. Later that year, he was indicted on four felonies, including one count of malice murder, one count of felony murder, aggravated assault, and gun possession during the commission of a felony. Earlier this year, he was sentenced to 30 years behind bars.
Following his sentence, the rapper released a rare statement and expressed remorse for his actions.
“I will continue to make music and work on becoming the best possible version of myself,” Silentó said in a statement. “I can’t reverse time, but I can serve the time I’ve been given lawfully, and strive to positively contribute to whatever my new environment may be. I entered this industry as a teenager, often without proper guidance or direction. While that is not an excuse, it is part of my truth. I pray for growth, evolution, and the ability to find forgiveness — for myself and for this entire situation. God bless y’all.”
