A judge has approved rapper Lil Nas X's entry into a mental health diversion program following his arrest for assaulting police officers. The incident occurred in August 2025 while the artist, whose legal name is Montero Lamar Hill, was reportedly found in a state of undress in Los Angeles.
During a court hearing on Monday, April 6, the Grammy-winning artist was informed by the California judge that the charges against him could be dropped. This outcome is contingent upon his successful completion of the diversion program and adherence to all laws over the next two years.
"I'm thankful. Just very thankful," Hill told Rolling Stone after the hearing. "It could have been much worse."
Hill was apprehended late at night on Ventura Boulevard while wearing only his underwear and cowboy boots. He faced charges including assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest.
Concerns about a possible overdose led to him being taken to a hospital.
If convicted and he fails to complete the court-ordered treatment, Hill could face up to five years in prison, as the charges were initially filed as felonies.
He had entered a plea of not guilty to the charges the previous year.
Following the incident, the "Old Town Road" artist was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Judge Alan Schneider remarked during Monday's proceedings that Hill's conduct at the time of his arrest was "aberrant from his normal conduct," according to his lawyer, Christy O'Connor, who spoke to BBC News.
The judge further noted that the rapper "appears to be doing very well" and that "when treated, he is much better off, and society is much better off."
Consequently, the judge granted Hill's request to participate in a treatment program, as confirmed by his legal counsel.
Diversion programs are designed to offer alternatives, such as therapeutic treatment, for individuals with mental health conditions who encounter the criminal justice system.
His defense attorney informed the court that after his arrest, Hill spent two months in a treatment facility located in Arizona.
After the court session concluded, Hill was observed smiling at journalists and giving a thumbs-up.
Following his arrest, his father shared with UK newspaper The Times that his mother's struggle with addiction and his own inability to assist her were impacting his mental well-being.
"For a 26-year-old to have to deal with what he's dealing with — to be a breadwinner for a lot of people, the inability to change his mother's situation and the pressure he puts on himself," his father, Robert Stafford, stated.
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