Silentó Sentenced to 30 Years for Killing His Cousin

• Rapper Silentó has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter of his cousin.
• The circumstances of the crime include gunshot wounds and family testimonies.
• Silentó has struggled with mental health issues and personal difficulties leading up to the crime.

This was reported by Associated Press, The Independent.

Plea and Sentencing

Wednesday, June 11, 2025, marked a significant day for rapper Silentó, known for his song "Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)." He pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges related to the death of his 34-year-old cousin, Frederick Rucks III, which occurred on January 21, 2021, in the suburbs of Decatur, Georgia.

Silentó, whose real name is Ricky Lamar Hawk, received a 30-year prison sentence, as announced by DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston.

Circumstances of the Crime

Police found Rucks with gunshot wounds to his leg and face. Ten shell casings were discovered at the scene, and surveillance footage captured a white BMW that fled after the shooting. A family member of Rucks confirmed that it was Silentó who picked up his cousin in that vehicle, and GPS data confirmed the car's presence at the crime scene.

Silentó confessed to the crime about 10 days after his arrest. Ballistic tests proved that the shell casings found belonged to the weapon he had in his possession at the time of his arrest.

Family Reaction and Silentó's Personal Issues

Before the sentencing, Rucks' siblings expressed that they believed Silentó deserved a harsher punishment. Silentó rose to fame in 2015, but since then, his life has been filled with challenges. In 2019, he admitted to struggling with depression and had experienced domestic violence.

In 2020, he attempted suicide and was also arrested on charges of domestic violence and making threats to life. His publicist noted that he has suffered from severe mental health issues.

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