*New Orleans bounce music queen Big Freedia is facing the music in a mature fashion as she takes “full responsibility” for stealing money from the government.
Referencing the Associated Press, Vulture reports the reality star (born Freddie Ross Jr.) has been charged with theft of government funds. The charge stems from Freedia allegedly misreporting her earnings between 2010 and 2014 in order to receive money from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and continue living in subsidized housing.
Explaining her situation, Freedia, who was recently featured on Beyoncé‘s latest single “Formation,” owned up to what she did while calling for better financial literacy for musicians in the following statement to Pitchfork:
“This is an incredibly unfortunate situation. I was on subsidized housing for many years before my financial situation changed. I quickly found myself in a new economic structure and, frankly, knew little about how to handle my money. It wasn’t until recently (after I had stopped receiving housing vouchers) that it became very clear I had received assistance to which I wasn’t entitled. It was an oversight — but one that I take full responsibility for. From the moment I was contacted by Government agents, I have fully cooperated and have already begun making arrangements to pay full restitution (of approximately $34,000).
“Housing vouchers are a vital lifeline for many people I know in New Orleans and around the country, including struggling artists. I truly believe there needs to be more programs for artists and musicians to teach basic financial literacy and planning. Coming from where I came from, I know that I could have used that kind of assistance. I’m exploring ways to be a part of the solution in this area and am looking forward to putting this matter behind me.”
As it stands now, Freedia, is scheduled to appear in court on March 16.
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