Atlanta rapper Silentó, known for the hit song “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” has been sentenced to 30 years in prison following his guilty plea in the 2021 fatal shooting of his cousin in DeKalb County, Georgia. Richard Lamar Hawk, 24 (age at time of plea, article states 27, verifying with source info), pleaded guilty but mentally ill to charges including voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault.
Contents
This outcome concludes a case that began with the discovery of the victim’s body in January 2021.
What Happened
On January 21, 2021, DeKalb County Police responded to reports of a shooting at a residence on Deep Shoals Circle and Corners Crossing. Officers found 34-year-old Frederick Rooks III dead at the scene, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
Neighbors reported hearing gunshots, and a security camera captured a white BMW SUV leaving the area shortly after the sounds. A family member of Rooks told investigators that the victim had last been seen with Silentó, who had picked him up in a white SUV.
Investigators later identified Hawk as the suspect.
The Investigation and Legal Process
After his arrest, prosecutors stated that Silentó admitted to shooting Rooks. Evidence collected at the scene, specifically bullet casings, reportedly matched a firearm found in the rapper’s possession when he was taken into custody.
Silentó was indicted for murder in connection with the shooting.
Following his arrest, a public relations manager for Silentó released a statement citing the rapper’s struggles with mental health illnesses and asking for public support and prayer.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Ricky Hawk remained in custody at the DeKalb County Jail throughout the legal process.
He ultimately entered a negotiated plea of guilty but mentally ill to voluntary manslaughter and other charges. This plea agreement resulted in a sentence handed down by a DeKalb County Superior Court judge.
Hawk received a 30-year prison sentence.
Background of the Rapper
Silentó gained international fame in 2015 with his viral single “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae).” The song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sparked a widespread social media dance phenomenon. Released while he was still a high school student, the track was his most significant musical success. He released his first full-length album in 2019.
Silentó mugshot from DeKalb County Sheriff's Office
Prior to the fatal shooting, Silentó had faced other legal issues. In 2020, he was arrested in DeKalb County for allegedly driving over 140 mph on Interstate 85. Later the same year, he was charged in Los Angeles with assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly attempting to attack two individuals with a hatchet.
What’s Next
Silentó will serve his sentence in state prison following his guilty plea and sentencing in DeKalb County. The case highlights the tragic consequences of the incident and the legal resolution through the voluntary manslaughter plea.
- Learn more about crime and public safety in DeKalb County.
- Explore related news stories on court cases.
