Breaking: Judge Sentences A Tearful DMX To A Year In The Bing For $2.2 Million Tax Evasion

DMX said he took full responsibility for not paying his taxes, and said he hired people to look after his finances, but never followed up. But he begged the judge for mercy, saying that he already had a tour lined up to celebrate the 20 years since his debut album, “It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot,” came out in order to pay the $2.2 million back.

“When I was given chances at pretrial, I didn’t really know how serious it was,” DMX, noticeably heavier in his navy blue jumpsuit, said. “It did happen, and it woke me up. I was already starting to think I’m getting too old for the things I’m doing.”

During the hearing, his lawyer, Stacy Richman played DMX’s 2007 autobiographical hit, “Slippin” to illustrate his talent, his childhood marred by abuse and how his music touched his fans.

It was unclear Wednesday whether DMX would get credit for the nearly two months he’s spent in jail for violating his bail terms.

The court was packed with DMX’s family, fans, lawyers and the media. Once the judge read out his sentence, DMX smiled at his supporters and flashed a peace sign as the U.S. Marshals led him back to the cells.