50 Cent Court Date: Rapper Ordered to Surrender Weapons, Keep Away From Daphne Joy
Rapper 50 Cent, also known as Curtis Jackson, was in court earlier today to plead not guilty to domestic violence against ex-girlfriend Daphne Joy. A Los Angeles County judge ordered Jackson to turn in any weapons he may have and to keep 100 feet away from Joy and her family while the case is ongoing.
"Daphne Joy and Curtis Jackson have been together for a few years in an exclusive relationship," Jim Yeager, a spokesman for the law firm of Meyer, Olson, Lowy & Meyers, which is representing Joy, told CNN. "They had a child and now Daphne's number one priority is to ensure both her and the baby's safety during this difficult time. We also hope everyone will respect her and the baby's privacy."
Jackson was served with paperwork pertaining to the custody of his and Joy's child as he left the courthouse today. He has not acknowledged having a child with Joy and denies any charges of domestic violence.
"It is important to note, Mr. Jackson has not been arrested and there is no warrant outstanding for his arrest," his lawyer, Scott Leemon, said earlier this month. "We have been in contact with the LA City Attorney's Office and are currently conducting our own investigation into these allegations."
Joy accused Jackson of ransacking her home during an argument, then causing her bodily harm by kicking her. Police estimated that Jackson caused $7,100 in damaged property before leaving the scene. They found broken furniture and a complete mess when they entered Joy's property.
"During an argument, Jackson allegedly began destroying the female's property," the city prosecutor said in a written statement. "Allegedly when the female locked herself in her bedroom, Jackson kicked open the bedroom door and kicked her, causing an injury."
If convicted on the four counts of vandalism and one count of domestic violence, Jackson could face five years in prison and $46,000 in fines. He is next scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 4.
