Chicago rapper Lil Zay Osama is facing serious new federal allegations after prosecutors accused him of taking part in a violent suburban home invasion centered around money and digital assets.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the 28-year-old rapper is one of six men charged in a federal indictment that includes kidnapping and robbery counts. Also named in the case are Khiell Dukes, Anthony Ramsey, Dashun Brown, David Franklin, and Jalen Chambers. Dukes is reportedly Lil Zay Osama’s brother, while Ramsey is identified as his half-brother. Authorities also said another suspect was arrested on April 28 with charges still pending.
Federal prosecutors allege the group carried out a targeted home invasion in Winnetka, Illinois, in March. Investigators claim the suspects were after a computer, online cryptocurrency accounts, and a safe believed to contain valuables. According to the indictment, one of the men allegedly approached the residence pretending to be a food delivery driver before the group forced their way inside at gunpoint.
Once inside, prosecutors say the suspects restrained victims and used threats while demanding access to financial accounts and property. The kidnapping charges stem from allegations that victims were held against their will during the robbery.
The case was announced by U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros’ office following a joint investigation by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Winnetka Police Department.
“By immediately deploying targeted federal resources to this investigation and working closely with our federal and local law enforcement partners, we were able to swiftly disrupt a violent criminal conspiracy and remove dangerous individuals from the streets in a matter of days,” Boutros said in a statement.
If convicted, the defendants could face up to life in prison. All six men have pleaded not guilty. Lil Zay Osama is scheduled to return to court on May 12.
The charges add to prior legal troubles for the Chicago artist, who has previously faced convictions involving firearms possession, fleeing police, and an illegal machine gun case in New York City.
