Rapper Kodak Black and three companions have been arrested at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge on charges they tried to bring weapons and marijuana into the United States from Canada.
"On Wednesday, during the initial inspection, the U.S. citizens admitted to being in possession of marijuana and firearms," said U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, in a statement. "During a secondary inspection, it was revealed that the weapons were possessed unlawfully in New York State and subsequently the marijuana, firearms and subjects were turned over to the New York State Police for further processing."
New York State Police say those arrested were Stetson President, 24, of Pompano Beach, FL and Madarrow Smith, 20, of Lauderhill, FL on criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. Bill Kapri, 21, of Miramar, FL and Jeantony Saintmelus, 22, of Lauderhill, FL were charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree and unlawful possession of marijuana. Kapri's stage name is Kodak Black.
It appears CBP was alerted by a California temporary registration on the Cadillac Escalade driven by Black, with President and Smith as passengers, according to State Police. Saintmelus was driving a Porsche accompanying the Cadillac, they said in a statement.
"Further inspection of the Cadillac revealed a Glock 9mm pistol that was undeclared by the all occupants including the passengers, President and Smith," said State Police. "Saintmelus declared having two loaded handguns and a third was found in the trunk during an inspection along with marijuana."
All suspects were arraigned at Lewiston Town Court and remanded to Niagara County Jail on $20,000 cash/$40,000 bond. They return to Lewiston Town Court in May.
Black is known for songs including "Zeze" and "No Flockin' He also faces a charge in South Carolina of first-degree criminal sexual misconduct for allegedly raping a woman after a 2016 concert.