After receiving a 30-year sentence for the tragic killing of his cousin, rapper Silentó has spoken out, expressing a determined outlook on his future. Ricky Lamar Hawk, known professionally as Silentó, was sentenced on June 11, 2025, in a case that saw him plead guilty but mentally ill to voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, possessing a gun during the crime, and concealing a death. This pivotal moment follows the fatal shooting of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III, which occurred on January 21, 2021.
Currently, Silentó is being processed at the Georgia Diagnostic and Classification State Prison in Jackson, Georgia, and is slated for transfer to a mental health facility. He will be eligible for parole after serving approximately 10 years of his 30-year sentence. The Silentó guilty plea acknowledges the severe nature of the charges while also bringing his significant mental health challenges into consideration by the court.
On June 12, 2025, just a day after his sentencing, Silentó released a statement reflecting on the profound changes in his life. He conveyed his intention to
“continue to make music and work on becoming the best possible version of myself.”
He acknowledged the irreversible nature of his actions but affirmed his commitment to
“serve the time I’ve been given lawfully, and strive to positively contribute to whatever my new environment may be.”
Reflecting on his early entry into the music industry as a teenager, he noted the lack of proper guidance, calling it part of his truth, though not an excuse. He concluded his statement with a prayer for
“growth, evolution, and the ability to find forgiveness for myself and for this entire situation,” signing off with “God bless y’all.”
His team, through PR & Crisis Manager Chanel Hudson-O’Connor, echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that the statement marks a crucial step toward healing and closure. They specifically requested continued prayers for all involved, particularly Silentó, highlighting his severe mental health struggles that have been a long-standing concern.
Silentó rose to global fame in 2015 with his viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” which became a dance phenomenon. However, his public career was increasingly overshadowed by personal difficulties. Research indicates his mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, were evident prior to the fatal incident, with a confirmed suicide attempt in 2020. This period of instability was also marked by several legal troubles in 2020, including arrests for domestic violence and assault with a deadly weapon for wielding a hatchet in a random home, followed by an arrest for reckless driving at 143 mph.
