Published: Friday - July 25, 2008
Words by Allen Starbury
DMX (Photo: Columbia)
DMX pleaded not guilty to an alleged identity theft incident dating back to April, in a Phoenix courtroom Thursday (July 24).
According to reports, the rapper told reporters he is innocent, and denies claims that he gave a fake social security number to a Scottsdale hospital to avoid paying $7,500 in medical expenses.
While leaving the hearing reporters asked for comment from the rapper (real name: Earl Simmons) who said, "If and when you ever fall down, get back up. ... Stand for something or fall for everything. Wait for the right pitch, you'll miss every swing."
X checked into the Mayo Clinic in April, and was treated chest pains and shortness of breath, but authorities say he gave the name Troy Jones, a false address and social security number, stiffing Jones with the bill.
The rapper's record label, Bodog Music, stands by the rapper, stating they wouldn't work with him if he was guilty.
"We wouldn't work with DMX period if we didn't believe he was just a victim of circumstance," Peter Karroll, president of Bodog, told the Associated Press. "The sheriff in Phoenix is definitely targeting him. It's unbelievable."
X faces multiple charges from several arrests spanning over the last few months, including drug possession and cruelty to animals in Phoenix.
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