US rapper Nelly arrested for suspected drug possession

He also had an outstanding warrant on a previous charge of not having proof of insurance for a vehicle. His arrest occurred at 4.45am on Wednesday, according to the patrol's report.

While Nelly's representatives did not immediately comment, one said his lawyer would issue a statement about the arrest on Wednesday evening. A call to Maryland Heights police seeking comment was not immediately returned.

Nelly, whose birth name is Cornell Haynes II, grew up in the St. Louis area.

Nelly, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is known for hits like Hot In Herre and Just A Dream. He's had four No. 1 hits and received nine Billboard Music Awards. He recently wrapped up a series of performances with Janet Jackson as a special guest on her tour.

Beyond his recording career, Nelly has appeared in a number of films and television series, including the sports film The Longest Yard and a reality series featuring his family. The artist announced in April he was engaged to singer and actor Ashanti and the pair is expecting a baby.

Nelly was previously arrested on drug charges in 2015 and was also arrested in 2017 after a woman alleged he had sexually assaulted her on his tour bus.