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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Queen Latifah Held On Gun, Drug Charges

Associated Press

Queen Latifah, who has preached against violence in her songs, was arrested Saturday for allegedly carrying a loaded pistol and possessing marijuana, authorities said.

The Grammy-winning rapper (real name: Dana Owens) was stopped for speeding as she headed west on Interstate 10, said California Highway Patrol Officer Garry Goldenberg.

The 25-year-old singer, who also stars in the Fox sitcom “Living Single,” was allegedly driving 75 mph in a 65 mph zone in a 1995 BMW. One of the officers who made the stop said he smelled the odor of burnt marijuana, Goldenberg said.

“He asked Miss Owens if she had been smoking and she said yes,” Goldenberg said.

The officers asked her if she had more marijuana or a gun in the car, and she responded yes to both questions, he said, adding a .38-caliber gun was found in the driver’s door pocket.

She was booked for investigation of carrying a concealed firearm, carrying a loaded firearm and possession of marijuana. She was also cited for speeding and could face driving under the influence charges, pending the outcome of drug tests, Goldenberg said.

She was released and ordered to appear in court, probably Monday, said Goldenberg.