Puerto Rican rapper Jhayco was arrested early Tuesday morning in Miami-Dade County on drug possession charges after deputies found suspected cocaine and cannabis during a traffic stop. The 32-year-old artist, born Jesus Manuel Nieves Cortes, faces charges that could impact his music career and upcoming projects.
Jhayco is a prominent Puerto Rican rapper, singer, and producer who gained international recognition after releasing his debut studio album ‘Famouz’ in 2019. As a leading figure in the Latin trap and reggaeton genres, he has collaborated with artists like Bad Bunny and J Balvin, establishing himself as one of Puerto Rico’s most streamed artists with millions of monthly listeners.
The arrest occurred around 4:24 AM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, when Miami-Dade Sheriff’s deputies observed Jhayco driving a red Corvette at approximately 5 mph on Southwest Eighth Street near 69th Avenue. According to the arrest report, the vehicle came to a complete stop in the roadway for over a minute, prompting deputies to initiate a traffic stop.
During the interaction, deputies reported smelling a strong odor of cannabis emanating from the vehicle. They also noted visible white powder on Jhayco’s pants and nose. A subsequent search revealed two black pouches containing suspected cannabis and two clear baggies of suspected cocaine in his possession.
Jhayco was charged with felony possession of cocaine and misdemeanor possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis. He was booked into Miami-Dade County’s Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he was held on a $3,000 bond as of Tuesday morning. The arrest report mentions Jhayco made a spontaneous statement during the incident, though its contents were redacted from public documents.
This arrest could significantly impact Jhayco’s professional trajectory, potentially affecting scheduled performances, album releases, and brand partnerships. As a public figure with substantial Latin American fanbase, the incident has already generated media attention across entertainment and Spanish-language news outlets.
Legal experts suggest the case will likely proceed through Florida’s court system, where plea negotiations or trial preparations would follow initial arraignment. Depending on the outcome, Jhayco could face fines, probation, mandatory rehabilitation programs, or potential incarceration under Florida’s drug possession statutes.
The next immediate steps include Jhayco’s potential release on bond and initial court appearances where formal charges will be presented. The case has drawn attention to celebrity accountability in the entertainment industry while highlighting ongoing challenges with substance-related incidents among touring artists.