This is the worst way for R&B singer Jaheim, who has once again found himself making news for all the wrong reasons. This time, not for those soulful love ballads or sexy falsetto, but, as they say, for being one of a dog's worst friends.
The "Put That Woman First" crooner was arrested on Tuesday, May 1, in Fulton County, Georgia, and now faces six additional counts of animal cruelty. Authorities say charges result from troubling conditions concerning multiple dogs at his property. Jaheim is accused of subjecting six dogs to a lack of clean water, adequate shelter, and proper ventilation, according to court records.
The animals in question reportedly are pit bull terriers, a French bulldog, and hound mix breeds that are said to be loyal and loving. They are now ensnared in a situation that has many pet lovers shaking their heads.
This is not Jaheim's first encounter with charges of animal cruelty. He made headlines in October 2021 after authorities discovered a gruesome scene at his home in Hillsborough, N.J.: 15 dogs crammed into filthy, feces-filled crates, many starving and with little to no access to food or water. One of the dogs was in such an abysmal condition that it had to be euthanized. That case resulted in third-degree charges for animal cruelty and failure to provide the proper care.
Now that he has the Fulton County arrest on his record, it's obvious this is not a one-off mistake. Whether due to neglect or an inability to care for them, the dogs' result is the same, and it's not OK.
Jaheim, a former Grammy nominee known for his velvety voice and heartfelt lyrics, has remained silent on these latest charges. Though his music may still be available on streaming services, his reputation is rapidly unraveling in the eyes of fans who once regarded him as a tender-hearted storyteller of love and pain.
The next morning, he was released from the Fulton County Jail, but the questions remain. Why would someone who has already been punished legally in the past end up in this situation again? Has nothing been learned?
Animal rights activists are watching with bated breath in the hopes that this latest arrest will result in more than just culpability but also a much-needed accounting of how animals are handled behind closed doors, especially by public figures who should know better.
So far, no court date has been set in this most recent case; the public is losing patience. It is unclear whether there will ultimately be any personal or legal redemption for Jaheim.
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