By Emeka Blast 
Silento Jailed 30 Years for Cousin’s Death
Rapper Silentó, born Ricky Lamar Hawk, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the 2021 shooting death of his cousin, Frederick Rooks III. Known for his 2015 viral hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” Silentó pleaded guilty but mentally ill to charges including voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and concealing a death. The plea deal resulted in the dismissal of a murder charge.
On January 21, 2021, Rooks was found shot multiple times in the Panthersville area of DeKalb County, Georgia. Surveillance footage and ballistic evidence linked Silentó’s vehicle and firearm to the crime scene. He confessed to the shooting shortly after being taken into custody.
Silentó had a history of mental health challenges, including depression and a suicide attempt in 2020. He had previously discussed his struggles with mental illness in public appearances.
Rooks’ family expressed disappointment with the sentence, believing it was too lenient. Silentó’s attorney cited his mental health issues as a factor in the case. The 30-year sentence includes time served since his arrest in February 2021.
