Cuban reggaeton artist Yakarta, whose real name is Luis Javier Prieto Cedeño, was taken into custody on Wednesday in Miami-Dade. He was subsequently transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, as revealed by the public records from the county's Department of Corrections.
The arrest report, identified by case number F26012494, states that the musician was booked on June 24 at 8:52 p.m. He faces three charges: third-degree vehicle theft, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use.
The bonds for these charges total $5,500: $2,500 for the vehicle theft, another $2,500 for the controlled substance possession, and $500 for the drug-related paraphernalia.
Additionally, the record notes "out on felony bond" related to a previous judicial case (Warrant Case #F26002109), indicating that Yakarta was already out on bail for a felony when this latest arrest occurred.
As of the time this article was published, the bail had not been posted, and the artist remained behind bars.
Yakarta's Legal Troubles in Florida
This marks at least the fifth known legal proceeding involving the singer in Florida. In March 2024, he was apprehended in Miami-Dade on charges of fraudulent possession of five or more identities, third-degree theft, and burglary.
In earlier incidents, he faced charges in April 2023 for theft in an unoccupied property and was arrested in Hialeah in August 2021 for stealing a package from a residence, a crime he admitted to authorities.
A Public Message of Redemption
The recent arrest starkly contrasts with the message of personal growth Yakarta publicly shared just 15 months ago.
During a March 2025 interview, he candidly discussed his detox journey after three years away from music due to drug addiction issues. He warned, "Drugs only distance you from the things you want; they only lead to certain death, hospital, or cemetery."
In the same interview, Yakarta credited his musical comeback to the death of his colleague El Taiger in October 2024. He hinted at a possible joint tour with El Chacal (Ramón Lavado), with whom he released the track "Sin freno y pa' la luna" on April 23, 2026, just two months before this new arrest.
Following his release from the March 2024 detention, Yakarta posted on Instagram: "If I dwell on the time I've lost, I'm losing it again."
As of now, neither Yakarta nor his representatives or family have issued a public statement regarding this latest arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yakarta's Arrest
What charges is Yakarta facing?
He is facing charges of third-degree vehicle theft, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use.
How much is Yakarta's bail?
The total bail amount is $5,500, comprising $2,500 for vehicle theft, $2,500 for controlled substance possession, and $500 for drug paraphernalia.
Has Yakarta been involved in legal issues before?
Yes, this is at least his fifth known legal issue in Florida, with previous charges including identity fraud, theft, burglary, and package theft.