South Texas country singer denied entry into Canada

Charley Crockett barred from crossing border due to old drug charge

Feb. 23, 2026 at 10:23pm

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Country music singer Charley Crockett, a native of South Texas, was denied entry into Canada for an upcoming tour due to an old drug possession charge from over a decade ago. Crockett had been scheduled to perform a series of shows in Canada starting this week, but was turned away at the border.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges that musicians and other artists can face when trying to travel internationally due to past legal issues, even if those charges are relatively minor and long-ago. It also raises questions about the fairness of Canada's strict entry policies and how they can impact the careers of touring musicians.

The details

Crockett, 39, was arrested in 2012 in his hometown of Crockett, Texas for possession of a small amount of marijuana. He was released on bail and the charges were eventually dismissed, but the incident remains on his record. When trying to cross the border into Canada this week, border officials denied Crockett entry, citing the old drug charge.

  • Crockett was arrested in 2012 in Crockett, Texas for marijuana possession.
  • Crockett was scheduled to perform a series of shows in Canada starting this week.

The players

Charley Crockett

A 39-year-old country music singer from South Texas who was denied entry into Canada due to an old drug possession charge.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really disappointed that I can't make it up to Canada to play for my fans there. But I understand the rules are the rules, even if I don't agree with them.”

— Charley Crockett

What’s next

Crockett is exploring options to potentially get the old charge expunged from his record in order to be able to tour in Canada in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the lasting impact that even minor criminal charges can have on the careers of musicians and other artists, underscoring the need for more flexible and forgiving policies around international travel, especially for those with non-violent offenses in their past.