Outkast - Outkast's Big Boi Avoids Jail

Outkast's Big Boi Avoids Jail

Outkast rapper Big Boi has avoided jail time for drugs charges.

The 'Shutterbugg' hitmaker was arrested in Miami this August on charges of Possession of ecstasy, MDMA and marijuana residue, but yesterday (13.10.11) reached a plea deal with a Floridian court.

In lieu of jail, the rapper - real name Antwan Patton - will undergo 30 hours of community service, pay $2,000 in donations to charities and have three months of mandatory drug testing.

After the terms were agreed Big Boi - dressed in a dark blazer, blue shirt and red, blue and gold tie - spoke to the court only to say: "God bless America."

Referring to his lawyer, Daniel Kane, he later tweeted: "It's a PEE deal, Not a Plea deal. Big Daniel Kane worked it out, Stank You (sic)."

Big Boi will retain two felony drug charges, but these will be wiped clean upon the completion of his sentence.

The rapper had been arrested while getting off a cruise ship, after a drugs dog alerted officers to his luggage.

Following his arrest, Daniel released a statement saying: "While Big Boi was travelling with his group and friends, a small amount of contraband was found in The Collective luggage. I am confident when the entire facts are aired Big Boi will be completely exonerated."