Chico DeBarge Arrested in Burbank After Allegedly Smoking Crack While Riding a Bike
R&B singer Chico DeBarge, once known for his smooth vocals and 90s slow jams, has found himself back in the headlines—for all the wrong reasons. The 59-year-old artist was arrested in Burbank, California in the early hours of July 4 after police say he was smoking crack cocaine while riding a bicycle.
Yes, you read that right.
DETROIT, MI – OCTOBER 03: Chico Debarge posing backsatge at the Insta-Jam at Masonic Temple Theater on October 3, 2015 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Monica Morgan/Getty Images)
According to the Burbank Police Department, officers initially stopped DeBarge for riding a bicycle without proper lighting equipment, which is a violation of the California Vehicle Code. But what started as a minor infraction quickly escalated. Upon further investigation, police allegedly discovered drug paraphernalia and suspected narcotics on his person.
Even more concerning? Authorities say DeBarge also had an outstanding warrant related to a previous methamphetamine possession charge. Following his arrest, the singer—whose legal name is Jonathan Arthur DeBarge—was booked and later released with a citation. He’s now scheduled to appear in court on August 1, 2025.
Chico, a member of the legendary DeBarge family, rose to fame in the mid-1980s with hits like “Talk to Me” and found renewed success in the 1990s with songs such as “No Guarantee” and “Iggin’ Me”. Despite his musical talent, he’s faced a long and very public struggle with substance abuse, including previous arrests tied to drugs.
Fans of the singer are expressing concern, with many hoping this latest run-in with the law will be a wake-up call rather than just another sad chapter. Addiction is real, and Chico’s story is unfortunately one that echoes across the entertainment industry far too often.
For now, he remains out of custody, but with a court date looming and legal issues stacking up, the pressure is mounting. Whether this marks a turning point or a continued downward spiral remains to be seen.
Here’s hoping he gets the help he needs—before the music fades for good.
