Rapper Jim Jones pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge on Wednesday (February 4) in Manhattan Criminal Court.

The charges stem from an alleged altercation that took place on Christmas Eve in New York, between himself and a man named Vaughn, the brother of Tyran "Ty Ty" Smith who works with Ne-Yo and is the longtime friend and colleague of Jones' lyrical nemesis, Jay-Z.

During the run-in, at the Fifth Avenue Louis Vuitton, Jones reportedly punched and kicked the victim, and was officially charged shortly after New Year's.

After entering a not guilty plea, Jones was released on his own recognizance.

He is not due back in court to until March 24, the day his upcoming solo album, Pray IV Reign, is due in stores.