Hip Hop Artist Silentó Sentenced to 30 Years for Manslaughter

ATLANTA, GA – Richard Lamar Hawk, widely known by his stage name Silentó, has been sentenced to a significant prison term of 30 years. The sentencing took place on June 11, 2025, marking a somber conclusion to a legal battle that began following the tragic death of his cousin.

A Guilty Plea and Previous Charges

Hawk, the artist behind the viral global hit “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)”, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in connection with the death of his cousin, Frederick Rooks. The incident occurred in 2021, leading to Hawk’s arrest in that same year. Prior to this plea, Hawk had been facing more severe charges, including allegations of malice murder and felony murder. His decision to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter represents a critical turn in the legal proceedings, averting a potentially lengthier trial.

The Timeline of Events

The sentencing in 2025 brings a degree of closure to the case that captivated public attention due to the artist’s fame within the hip hop and music communities. Hawk’s arrest in 2021 initiated a multi-year legal process. While the details surrounding the altercation that led to Rooks’ death have not been fully elaborated in public court documents beyond the charge of voluntary manslaughter, the legal system has now rendered its judgment.

Impact on the Music Industry

Silentó, born Richard Lamar Hawk, rose to international fame in 2015 with his infectious dance track that became a global phenomenon. The song’s simple yet catchy choreography and widespread appeal made it a staple at parties, schools, and social media platforms worldwide. His subsequent legal troubles cast a long shadow over his promising career in the music industry. This personal news has sent ripples through the hip hop scene, with many expressing shock and sadness at the trajectory of the young artist’s life.

The sentencing underscores the serious consequences that can arise from violent altercations, regardless of one’s public profile. The voluntary manslaughter conviction indicates a finding that Hawk caused the death of his cousin, but likely without the premeditation or malice that would constitute murder charges. The 30-year sentence reflects the gravity of the offense, with the expectation that Hawk will serve a substantial portion of this term.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

The legal journey from Hawk’s 2021 arrest to his 2025 sentencing involved numerous court appearances, potential plea negotiations, and the eventual guilty plea to voluntary manslaughter. The initial charges of malice murder and felony murder carried the possibility of life imprisonment or even the death penalty in some jurisdictions, depending on the specific laws applicable. By accepting the plea deal and receiving a 30-year sentence, Hawk has avoided a trial where the prosecution would have had to prove those more serious allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.

Details regarding the specific circumstances of Frederick Rooks’ death remain sensitive and were central to the plea agreement. The court’s decision to impose a 30-year sentence is a significant outcome, impacting not only Hawk’s personal future but also leaving a lasting mark on his legacy within the music world. The hip hop community, in particular, has followed this case closely, recognizing Silentó as a unique talent who achieved immense success at a young age.

Looking Ahead

Richard Lamar Hawk, now facing three decades in prison, will begin serving his sentence following the June 11, 2025, court order. The full implications of this sentence will unfold over the coming years. For fans of his music and the broader hip hop culture, this serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers that can intersect with the pursuit of fame. The news of his sentencing is a significant development in personal and legal matters impacting a well-known artist.