Rap Label Chief Gotti Accepts Drug Program

The chief of Vivendi Universal rap label Murder Inc. agreed to enter a drug-diversion program in Oakland after his arrest last week on a charge of drug possession.

Irv “Gotti” Lorenzo, whose label is the target of a federal money-laundering probe, was arrested Friday at the Oakland Coliseum during a concert by R&B; star R. Kelly. Lorenzo was charged with misdemeanor drug possession after guards backstage discovered one Ecstasy pill and four Viagra tablets in his wallet during a security check.

An Alameda County Superior Court judge told Lorenzo’s lawyer that the music executive was eligible to enter drug diversion. If Lorenzo completes the program, the drug charge will be dismissed.

Chuck Philips