James and Chico DeBarge smiling at an event
Music

80s R&B Stars James And Chico DeBarge Arrested In Los Angeles On Drug Possession Allegations

The musical brothers were taken into police custody after officers allegedly discovered fentanyl and meth during a traffic stop.

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 2 min read

Members of the famous 1980s R&B family group DeBarge are confronting serious new legal troubles in Southern California. Brothers James DeBarge and Chico DeBarge were taken into custody following a traffic stop in Los Angeles after officers reportedly uncovered illicit drugs in their possession. According to reports from law enforcement insiders, police pulled over the musical duo last week for an undisclosed traffic violation. During the routine stop, officers conducted an inspection that led to the discovery of substances suspected to be methamphetamine and fentanyl. Both performers were arrested on the spot and booked for drug possession.

Why were James and Chico DeBarge arrested in Los Angeles?

The alleged involvement of fentanyl, a highly dangerous synthetic opioid responsible for a severe public health crisis nationwide, elevates the severity of the situation. Law enforcement personnel reportedly impounded the vehicle after finding the narcotics, and samples of the confiscated materials were sent for laboratory testing to confirm their chemical composition. At this time, representatives for the brothers have not released an official public statement regarding the charges. It remains unclear whether either musician has posted bail or when their next scheduled court appearances will take place in Los Angeles County.

James and Chico DeBarge smiling at an event
James and Chico DeBarge smiling at an event

What hits did James and Chico DeBarge sing in the 80s?

The DeBarge family emerged as one of Motown's premier acts in the 1980s, rising to global stardom with immortal R&B hits like "Rhythm of the Night," "All This Love," and "Love Me in a Special Way." James DeBarge earned international fame as a core vocalist for the family ensemble, while Chico DeBarge carved out his own solo path with 1986's smash R&B single "Talk to Me." In the decades following their peak chart years, members of the celebrated music dynasty have faced well-documented personal hurdles, including past run-ins with law enforcement and prolonged battles with addiction. News of the recent Los Angeles arrest has sparked a wave of concern among long-time fans who have followed the family's turbulent history over the years. Local prosecutors are expected to review the police findings once official laboratory results confirm the nature of the seized substances. Further updates regarding potential formal charges against the two R&B veterans are anticipated as the investigation continues.

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People also ask

Why were James and Chico DeBarge arrested?
James and Chico DeBarge were arrested in Los Angeles after law enforcement officers reportedly found suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine during a traffic stop.
Who are James and Chico DeBarge?
James and Chico DeBarge are 1980s R&B singers best known for their work with Motown family group DeBarge and solo hits like "Talk to Me."