Grammy-nominated singer Akon, born Aliaune Badara Thiam, was arrested in DeKalb County on Nov. 7 after police say a license-plate camera alerted officers to a vehicle linked to an outstanding bench warrant. The entertainer was booked into the DeKalb County Jail and released a few hours later, authorities said.
What happened: a bench warrant, a Cybertruck and a quick release
Chamblee police say officers responded to a Tint World auto business after a Flock license-plate camera flagged a white Tesla Cybertruck registered to Thiam. When officers contacted the singer outside the vehicle, they confirmed the outstanding warrant and took him into custody without incident. Akon complied during the encounter and was transported to the DeKalb County Jail. He was released the same day.
According to police records cited by local outlets, the bench warrant originated from a Roswell Police Department matter tied to an earlier stop in September when Thiam’s vehicle was found stranded and officers discovered his driver’s license had been suspended for failure to appear in court. That prior citation and the resulting warrant are the basis for the recent arrest, officials said.
No new felony allegations; details remain limited
Law enforcement and jail records reviewed by local news organizations indicate there were no new criminal charges announced at the time of Akon’s release. Authorities have not said whether additional charges will be filed or when Thiam is next due in court. Officials also have not confirmed the current status of the vehicle that triggered the alert.
Why the story matters: public figures and the warrant-detection system
The arrest highlights how automated license-plate and vehicle-alert systems — used widely in metro Atlanta and its suburbs — can lead to on-the-spot arrests when a vehicle is linked to an active warrant. In this case, a routine check at an auto shop led to the detention of a high-profile musician and a brief jail booking.
Quick look: Akon’s public profile
Akon rose to mainstream fame in the early 2000s with hits such as “Locked Up,” “Lonely” and “Smack That.” Beyond music, he has pursued business and philanthropic ventures in recent years. This arrest is related to a license and court-appearance matter, not to any newly reported criminal conduct connected to his music career or public projects.
FAQ
Was Akon arrested? / Was Akon arrested in Georgia?
Yes. Akon (Aliaune Thiam) was arrested by Chamblee police in DeKalb County, Georgia, on Nov. 7 after an automated camera linked his vehicle to an active bench warrant. He was booked and released the same day.
What were the Akon arrest charges? / Why was Akon arrested?
Local law enforcement reports say the arrest stemmed from an outstanding bench warrant tied to a prior traffic stop in which his driver’s license was found to be suspended for failure to appear in court. Authorities have not announced any new charges beyond the warrant at the time of his release.
Was Akon locked up / Is Akon in jail now?
He was booked into the DeKalb County Jail and released a few hours later. As of the latest reports, he is not being held in jail.
What did Akon get arrested for / What was the reason for the arrest?
The arrest was connected to a bench warrant from a Roswell Police matter that stemmed from a suspension of his driver’s license after a prior traffic incident. Officials said the warrant — not a new arrestable offense at the scene — prompted the booking.
Will Akon face more legal trouble?
At this time, police have not released information indicating additional charges will be filed; court records and future filings will determine if further legal action follows.
Where can I find Akon’s music if I want to listen to his songs like “Locked Up” and “Lonely”?
Akon’s catalog — which includes “Locked Up,” “Lonely,” “Smack That” and other hits — is available on major streaming platforms and digital music stores.