Lil Nas X Enters Mental Health Program to Resolve Police Assault Charges

The 'Old Town Road' rapper will undergo treatment for bipolar disorder in exchange for dropped charges.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:51am

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An extreme close-up photograph of shattered glass and glittering sequins in high-contrast studio lighting, conceptually representing the fragility of celebrity and the challenges of mental health struggles.The glitz and glamour of celebrity life can mask the internal battles stars like Lil Nas X face, as seen in this abstract close-up of high-fashion textures.Los Angeles Today

Lil Nas X has been allowed to enter a mental health diversion program by a Los Angeles judge, which is intended to lead to the dismissal of charges related to an incident where he allegedly attacked police officers while walking naked down a street in the San Fernando Valley. The court found the incident was a result of the 26-year-old's recently diagnosed bipolar disorder, an aberration from his usual behavior.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges celebrities can face in managing mental health issues and the potential benefits of diversion programs that prioritize treatment over punishment. It also raises questions about policing responses to public mental health crises and the need for more compassionate approaches.

The details

According to authorities, Lil Nas X was walking naked down a street in LA's San Fernando Valley in August when he charged at police officers responding to calls about him. A criminal complaint alleges three officers were injured in the incident. The rapper pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of battery with injury on a police officer and one count of resisting an executive officer.

  • The incident occurred in August 2026.
  • Lil Nas X entered the mental health diversion program on April 7, 2026.

The players

Lil Nas X

A 26-year-old Grammy-winning rapper and singer best known for the hit song 'Old Town Road' and his genre-bending, innovative musical style.

Judge Alan Schneider

The Los Angeles judge who allowed Lil Nas X to enter the mental health diversion program.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident involving Lil Nas X and filed charges against him.

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What they’re saying

“These last four days have been terrifying, but I want to thank the fans for their love and support through this. I am still here and I will be fine.”

— Lil Nas X

“I'm thankful. Just very thankful. It could have been much worse.”

— Lil Nas X

What’s next

If Lil Nas X successfully completes the mental health diversion program and obeys all laws for two years, the four felony charges against him will be dismissed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues compassionately, especially for high-profile individuals who may face additional pressures. It also underscores the need for law enforcement to have specialized training and resources to respond effectively to public mental health crises.