The Queen of Bounce, better known as Big Freedia, was charged in federal court Tuesday with felony theft of government funds. He allegedly lied about his income in order to qualify for Section 8.
via WWLTV:
Big Freedia is the stage name of Freddie Ross, Jr., who was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with lying about his income to get subsidized housing through a Section 8 voucher each year from 2010 to 2014.
The bill of information suggests that Ross will plead guilty. It refers to Ross as “he,” even though Big Freedia performs as a woman and also uses “she.”
Big Freedia allegedly lied about how much money he was making as he renewed Section 8 vouchers on an annual basis.
The 2010-2014 timeframe coincides with Big Freedia’s rise to national fame as the Queen of Bounce music. He helped spread bounce outside New Orleans by appearing on HBO’s “Treme,” on national talk shows, and in 2013 he got his own reality show on the Fuse Network.
His fame hit a new high this year when he appeared with Beyonce in her Formation video, which featured New Orleans imagery.
Freddie Ross Jr. is charged with stealing more than $1,000 in vouchers, but the value is actually much higher than that. Ross could face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He could also face forfeiture of property equivalent to the amount of the vouchers received.
Ross’ initial appearance is set for March 16.
This is NOT how you get in formation. “I did not come to play with you hoes,” said the government.
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