Rapper Tech 9 faced sexual abuse charges before mysterious death

The sudden death of famed battle rapper Akhiym “Tech 9” Mickens rocked hip-hop fans in his native Philadelphia and around the globe. But less than two weeks later, newly revealed allegations are sending another round of shockwaves through his community.

Court of Common Pleas documents state the revered rapper was arrested on January 5 and faced multiple charges including child pornography, unlawful contact with a minor, and indecent exposure.

According to Philadelphia Magazine, the arrest stemmed from allegations of sexual abuse from the daughter of a woman Mickens was dating.

Mickens was scheduled for arraignment on Monday, March 25, the day Buttah From Da Block broke the news of his death on Facebook in the early hours. The cause of death is still under investigation, though many suspect suicide.

The criminal charges are bound to tarnish a hip-hop legacy that spans over a decade and led to an outpouring of condolences online from some of the biggest names in hip-hop when Mickens’ death hit the news.

His Germantown community mourned him during a candlelight vigil the day after his death was announced, and supporters called for the city to commemorate him. A Facebook fundraiser created by Micken’s father Mark Anthony Mickens generated close to $30,000, surpassing its goal of $20,000.

Mickens and Buttah From Da Block did not respond to requests for comment.