By: Michael Jacobs – Senior Correspondent | LGBT Entertainment News

LAS VEGAS — (March 13, 2026) — Grammy-winning rapper Lil Nas X appeared in a California courtroom this week as his legal team sought to place the artist into a diversion program connected to his ongoing felony police battery case.




The 26-year-old “Old Town Road” and “MONTERO” performer attended the hearing Thursday at the Van Nuys courthouse alongside his attorney, Christy O’Connor. According to court proceedings, the defense requested additional time in order to formally file a motion asking the judge to transfer the case into a pretrial diversion program.

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Such programs typically involve rehabilitation, counseling, or community service and are designed to resolve certain criminal cases without a formal conviction if the defendant successfully completes the program.  The judge agreed to delay the proceedings and scheduled the next hearing for April 6, 2026.

Outside the courthouse, Lil Nas X briefly addressed reporters and his supporters, expressing appreciation for the fans who have continued to stand by him during the legal battle.

“All I wanted to say is to my fans, I really love and I miss you, and I appreciate your support so much, and I can’t wait to be back hugging you guys,” the rapper said.

The charges stem from an August 21, 2025 incident in Los Angeles in which prosecutors allege the artist assaulted police officers while acting erratically. Authorities say the rapper was seen walking in traffic on Ventura Boulevard wearing only underwear before officers attempted to detain him.

Prosecutors later charged him with three counts of battery with injury on a police officer and one count of resisting an executive officer. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to five years in state prison.



Lil Nas X has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Following his arrest last year, the artist spent a weekend in jail before later telling fans on social media that the experience had been “terrifying.” Shortly afterward, he traveled out of state to receive treatment at an undisclosed facility.

His father, Robert Stafford, later suggested that the pressures surrounding the artist’s career and personal circumstances may have contributed to the events leading up to the arrest.

“For a 26-year-old to have to deal with what he’s dealing with — to be a breadwinner for a lot of people, the inability to change his mother’s situation, and the pressure he puts on himself — that can weigh heavily on your heart,” Stafford said.




The diversion motion expected in the coming weeks could potentially allow the rapper to resolve the case without a formal conviction if the court approves the request and program requirements are met.

The case will resume when the parties return to court on April 6.

For more breaking LGBT Entertainment News, celebrity interviews, and music industry coverage, stay connected to JRL CHARTS NETWORK — the global LGBTQ entertainment news authority.




Michael Jacobs
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