(AllHipHop News) Despite currently serving a 1 year jail sentence in New York, Lil Wayne has been hit with a bench warrant for failing to appear in Arizona to face drug and weapon charges.
The warrant was issued by Superior Court Judge Mark Wayne Reeves this morning due to the superstar rapper not appearing for the court’s final trial management conference. Wayne had previously pleaded not guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia, misconduct with weapons, possession of a narcotic drug for sale, and possession of dangerous drugs.
The case stems from a 2008 arrest when authorities claimed to have found cocaine, ecstasy, and a handgun on Wayne’s tour bus during a routine border check.
Wayne’s attorney James Tilson attempted to have the proposed March trial date delayed for the next 12 months, arguing there’s no feasible way his client can attend while incarcerated in another state.
“Mr. Carter is being detained involuntarily in another jurisdiction,” Tilson told the Yuma Sun. “It does not appear that a trial will be occurring anytime within the next 8 to 12 months.”
Lil Wayne is currently in protective custody to serve out his 1 year sentence in New York City for a guilty plea on attempted criminal possession of a weapon (.40 caliber semi-automatic pistol). He is eligible for release in 8 months due to good behavior.
If Wayne were free, the bench warrant would allow authorities to apprehend and bring him back to the issuing court to face any outstanding charges.
At press time, the prosecutor’s office in Yuma County has raised Lil Wayne’s bond from $10,000 to $150,000. A new trial date has not been decided.