Rappers Paul Wall, Baby Bash face Houston judge on drug charges

HOUSTON – Houston rapper Paul Wall and fellow rapper Baby Bash appeared in a Houston courtroom Tuesday on drug charges.

Wall, whose real name is Paul Michael Slayton, 35; Bash, whose real name is Ronald Ray Bryant, 47, and eight other people were arrested last week during a raid, Houston police said.

Wall and Bash were both charged with manufacturing and delivering a controlled substance between 4 and 400 grams. According to court documents, the substance was tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known as THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

Bryant said the arrests happened during a “gathering of the cannabis community.” He also referred to the gathering as a “smokeout.”

RAW VIDEO: Paul Wall, Baby Bash in court

During Tuesday’s hearing, the prosecutor said undercover officers knew the time and location of the “smokeout” because of an Instagram account called “Secret Smoke Society,” which advertised the location of the event and a $10 cover charge. He said marijuana, THC oil and pills were found at the party.

The judge called this a case of “engaging in organized, criminal activity,” and ordered random drug testing.

Wall told the judge that he would test positive for four drugs if she immediately tested him. His attorney said Wall suffers from a problem with his back. The judge asked for proof of valid prescriptions.

If convicted, prosecutors said, the group can face up to life in prison.