Mike Epps Responds to Gun Incident!

TSA officers discovered a Smith & Wesson .38-caliber pistol inside the his backpack

Mike Epps photo by Mark Nicholson

Indianapolis: After having a loaded revolver taken from him by federal investigators as he tried to board a flight at the Indianapolis International Airport, comedian Mike Epps has apologized to his fans.

Epps apologized for the "negativity" that surrounds the incident despite claiming that he always carries a firearm with him in a video that was uploaded on Instagram.

"I want to give a shout-out to all my fans out there. I want to apologize if you're seeing any negativity about a gun charge at an airport," "the actor and comedian, stated.

After a "long night" in Indianapolis, where he hosted a show the previous night at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse alongside D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, Earthquake and DC Young Fly, Epps said that he "forgot" he had the weapon on him.

"I had a long night. I had a show in my hometown and I literally forgot that I had my pistol in my bag", he said. " 

The incident is being investigated by the Marion County Prosecutor's Office, but Michael Leffler, a spokesperson, said charges are not likely.

Criminal charges in these gun cases are extremely uncommon, according to Leffler.

Mike Epps photo by Mark Nicholson

Indiana Gun Crimes Attorney

Indianapolis criminal defense attorney Mark Nicholson stated, "I was there that night at the show. It was hilarious. 

However, the law demands that the burden of proof is on the State to prove whether a person knowingly or intentionally brought the gun to the airport. In most cases, people totally forget they have placed it somewhere. Usually the State does not prosecute or the case is resolved by a Diversion Agreement."

Mike Epps explained in the video from last Wednesday why he chose to carry a gun in the first place. He said it was for his own protection. He encouraged his fans to "stay strapped." 

"Thank you for understanding," Epps wrote as the video's caption. "Just want to let y'all know that I'm still on some positive vibes. And sorry that it happened. All I can tell you is the world is crazy; stay strapped."

Epps will make his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut in the Dakota Johnson-led movie "Madame Web." He will also appear in Natalie Portman's "Lady in the Lake," an Apple TV+ series.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are stopped at the airport for a gun, please contact our office so we can help you through this difficult and embarrassing situation. Call 317-667-0718.