Rapper DMX pleads not guilty in tax fraud case

Music
17 Jul 17

Rapper DMX, whose given name is Earl Simmons, has pleaded not guilty to 14 counts of tax fraud in the US. He could face over a 40-year prison sentence.

The American hip-hop star is scheduled to appear in a Manhattan court today, after being released on bail Friday.

Authorities claim Simmons avoided $1.7 million (€1.5 million) in taxes during the early 2000's, allegedly setting up bank accounts in other people's names, or paying large sums in cash.

"Celebrity rapper or not, all Americans must pay their taxes," the indictment states.

Simmons is also charged with failing to file tax returns and falsely filing for bankruptcy. The rapper's bail agreement doesn't allow him to leave NYC, but Simmons is scheduled for a number of shows this summer.

Five of DMX's records have reached number 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, with hits such as 'X Gon' Give it to Ya' and 'Party Up (Up in Here).' He has also appeared in films including Romeo Must Die and Exit Wounds.