El DeBarge has had trouble with law enforcement and drugs in the past, but this time the "Second Chance" singer said he was falsely accused.
El DeBarge has had trouble with law enforcement and drugs in the past, but this time the "Second Chance" singer said he was falsely accused. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok

El Debarge was riding high off the recent Grammy nomination he received when he was arrested in Encino, Calif., for drug possession with intent to sell.

DeBarge, a main staple in 80s R&B music and a member of the group, DeBarge, was in the middle of a critically acclaimed comeback. The Second Chance singer was nominated for a Grammy this past year for his album and had performed at many big shows and events. He was set to go on tour last year with KEM and Ledisi, but dropped out to enter into rehab.

I hate to disappoint my fans, but it is necessary for me to take the time to work on me so that I may continue to share my music and my story with everyone, DeBarge said in a statement.

DeBarge was a successful solo act in the 80s following his departure from the group he formed with his brothers. However, addiction and legal problems plagued the singer back then also and he hadn't made music in almost 20 years.

DeBarge was arrested in Encino Tuesday afternoon for possession of narcotics with intent to sell. Cops said they observed DeBarge in what looked like a drug deal with another man. This was his third arrest since 2001. He also spent 13 months in jail for drugs and was released in 2009. Debarge was booked and released on $30,000 bail. He is due back in court next month.

DeBarge's other brother James is currently serving time behind bars after being arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and drug charges. He is in the same prison as Dr. Conrad Murray who is serving time for Michael Jackson's death. Janet Jackson, Michael's sister, and James Debarge were married in 1984, but it was annulled in 1985.

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