Atlanta-based rapper Silentó, best known for his viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” has been sentenced to 30 years in prison following the fatal shooting of his cousin in 2021. The 27-year-old artist, whose real name is Ricky Lamar Hawk, entered a plea of guilty but mentally ill in DeKalb County, Georgia.
The sentencing, announced by District Attorney Sherry Boston on Wednesday, June 11, included charges of voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and concealing the death of another. The victim, 34-year-old Frederick Rooks III, was found with multiple gunshot wounds on January 21, 2021.
According to the DeKalb County Police Department, officers responded to the shooting around 3:37 a.m. at the intersection of Deep Shoals Circle and Corners Crossing in the Panthersville area. Rooks was declared dead at the scene by emergency responders. Investigators found 10 bullet casings near his body.
Police learned from a relative that Hawk and Rooks were last seen together when the rapper picked up his cousin in a white BMW SUV. Surveillance footage from a nearby home captured the same vehicle speeding away from the scene shortly after shots were fired.
Hawk confessed to the shooting during questioning on February 1, 2021, after being taken into custody.
Following the arrest, Silentó’s public relations manager, Chanel Hudson, urged the public to show compassion for the troubled artist. “Please send my client Silentó some positive vibrations,” she told Fox 5 Atlanta. “Over the past several years, Ricky has been suffering immensely from a series of mental health illnesses.”
Hudson also asked supporters to pray for Hawk and his family during this difficult time. “Ricky is a beautiful soul, and we hope that the same people who danced to ‘Whip/Nae Nae’ will continue to support and pray for him,” she said.
Once a rising star in the music industry, Silentó’s life has taken a tragic turn. His case highlights the importance of mental health support, even in the lives of those who once stood in the spotlight.