American rapper Wiz Khalifa is facing legal trouble in Romania after being indicted on charges of illicit drug use following a performance at the “Beach, Please!” festival on the Black Sea coast in July.
The 37-year-old artist, whose real name is Cameron Jibril Thomaz, was brought to trial by DIICOT (Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism) prosecutors on October 16 at the Constanța Tribunal.
The charges stem from an incident where Khalifa allegedly smoked cannabis on stage during his performance at the festival in Costinești. Videos of the moment quickly went viral, leading to the rapper’s immediate detention by police after the show.
Though he was released shortly afterward, an investigation by DIICOT’s Constanța Territorial Service continued, ultimately resulting in the formal charges.
Romanian law prohibits the possession and use of marijuana, which is classified as a “risk drug.” Under current legislation, the rapper faces a potential prison sentence ranging from three months to two years, or a fine if convicted.
For offenses involving high-risk drugs, the penalties can be more severe, carrying a prison term of six months to three years.
According to DIICOT, investigations revealed that during the festival, Khalifa was found to be in possession of more than 18 grams of cannabis and consumed an additional amount on stage in the form of a hand-rolled cigarette.
At the time, Romanian Police cited the possession of a controlled substance as grounds for his detention and investigation.
The rapper, known for his unapologetic advocacy for cannabis use in his music and public persona, acknowledged the incident soon after it occurred. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khalifa apologized to his Romanian audience.
“Last night’s show was amazing. I didn’t mean to disrespect Romania by lighting up a joint on stage. They were very respectful and let me go. I’ll be back soon. But without a big joint next time,” he wrote.
Despite his apology, Romanian authorities moved forward with the case, underscoring the country’s strict drug laws.
The Romanian government has maintained a zero-tolerance policy on drug use, including cannabis, which remains illegal despite broader movements toward decriminalization and legalization in other parts of Europe.
The case has sparked debate among Romanian music fans and legal experts about the country’s stance on drug policy.
While some argue for modernization of the laws, others support the authorities’ decision to enforce strict regulations on drug use, especially in public settings. Khalifa’s case is seen as a test of how Romanian law handles international celebrities involved in such offenses.
Khalifa’s representatives have not issued any further statements regarding the trial, and it remains unclear how the legal process will unfold.
Should the rapper be convicted, the penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or potentially a suspended sentence, depending on the court’s ruling.
The next hearing is expected in the coming weeks, with Romanian prosecutors and the defense likely to present evidence related to the incident.
The case will be closely watched, given Khalifa’s global fame and the broader implications it may have for Romania’s drug laws and their enforcement.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members