Times are rough for Troy Ave.
Back in July, the Brooklyn rapper was indicted on one count of second degree attempted murder as well as four counts of second degree criminal possession of a weapon. And although Troy was eventually released from jail on a $500,000 bond, his bail conditions have led to some serious financial struggles. And we mean serious.
Sources close to the rapper told DNA Info that the 30-year-old is “barely able to get by” because the bail stipulations have kept him from making money. Troy, whose real name is Roland Collins, is reportedly under an 11 p.m. curfew, and is not allowed to leave NYC or be in nightclubs or other venues. His lawyer John Stella said that Troy has missed dozens of tour dates and lost tens of thousands of dollars because of the stipulations. Stella recently asked the judge to loosen the bail restrictions so Troy can go back to earning an income; however, the judge said he wants to wait for additional evidence before he can make a decision on the request.
Troy’s charges stem from a deadly shootout that took place at Irving Plaza back in May. The incident, which occurred backstage at Irving Plaza during a T.I. concert, resulted in the death of Ronald McPhatter, Troy’s bodyguard and close friend. The situation became more complicated after surveillance footage showed Troy wielding a firearm and shooting backstage. Police eventually arrested Troy and charged him with attempted murder.
The rapper has maintained his innocence, and has also filed a lawsuit against Irving Plaza, claiming its lax security is was what ultimately led to the shooting.
Troy reportedly makes between $6,000 and $10,000 for each performance. Since his arrest, he has had to cancel more than 50 shows, some of which were paid in advance. Stella says he wants Troy's conditions to be similar to those of Rick Ross. Back in 2015, Ross was released on a $2 million bond after he was accused of kidnapping and assault; however, he is still permitted to travel and perform under 24-hour monitoring.
“Just like Rick Ross, Troy should be given the ability to work and provide for his family,” Stella told DNA Info.
