Busta Rhymes Charged with Third-Degree Assault After Allegedly Punching Man in Brooklyn

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Busta Rhymes, whose real name is Trevor George Smith Jr., has been accused of repeatedly punching a man in the face and has been charged with third-degree assault. The incident occurred on January 10, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York, near the intersection of Jay and Front streets. The victim, a 50-year-old man, suffered swelling to the left side of his face and was taken to NYC Health and Hospitals/Woodhull for treatment.

The altercation reportedly started during a verbal dispute, and Busta Rhymes allegedly punched the victim multiple times. Following the incident, Busta Rhymes turned himself in to the New York Police Department (NYPD) and was issued a desk appearance ticket, which requires him to appear in court for an arraignment. The charges include third-degree assault, a misdemeanor under New York state law, which involves intentionally or recklessly causing physical injury.

This is not the first time Busta Rhymes has faced legal issues. In 2015, he was charged with second-degree assault after allegedly throwing a protein drink at a gym employee. Despite these legal troubles, Busta Rhymes has continued to promote his new music and projects, including a single with YG Marley titled "Treasure and Gold" and a new project called Dragon Season.