DMX avoids more jail time for assault

updated 7:31 p.m. ET June 8, 2009

PHOENIX - Rapper DMX was sentenced Monday to more than a year of probation, avoiding more time in Arizona jails after spending two years in and out of the state’s legal system.

DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, pleaded guilty in May to attempted aggravated assault after authorities said he threw a meal tray at a jail officer. He had been in jail serving a sentence for felony theft, drug possession and animal cruelty and was released in May after nearly 80 days in custody.

In the latest incident, he was sentenced in Maricopa County Superior Court to 18 months of supervised probation and ordered to pay various fines and fees. He also was credited with time served and was allowed to serve his probation and undergo a counseling program in Florida, where he planned to return.

“Don’t misunderstand me. It’s a beautiful state, it’s a beautiful city. But the powers that be have it out for me. It kind of taints my view,” he said.

Simmons and his lawyer said they were satisfied with the outcome of the plea agreement.

“I think even the court wants the best for him,” said attorney Glenn Allen.

Simmons said he planned to work on a new album. The 38-year-old “Year of the Dog ... Again” rapper has also starred in movies such as “Romeo Must Die” and “Exit Wounds.”

In 2007, Maricopa County Sheriff’s deputies raided his north Phoenix home, where they seized several pit bulls, weapons and marijuana. In 2008, he was arrested for speeding on a Phoenix freeway and Maricopa County authorities later alleged Simmons went to a Scottsdale clinic and gave a false name to receive care with the intent of not paying.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said in a statement that he was disappointed by Simmons’ sentence Monday, adding: “The fact that the court gave him what amounts to about two weeks’ time for assaulting an officer is a farce.”

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