Who Is Nicki Minaj’s Boyfriend? Rapper Dating Registered Sex Offender Kenneth Petty

Nicki Minaj received some backlash from fans after she posted photos of herself and her new boyfriend Kenneth Petty on Instagram.

The “Queen” artist, who celebrated her 36th birthday on Dec. 8, shared several photos from her vacation on social media, but quickly began to slam those who criticized her new beau’s criminal past.

Petty is a registered level 2 sex offender who was convicted of attempted rape in 1995, when he was 15 years old and the victim was 16 years old. Sources close to Minaj told TMZ Petty was actually dating the victim at the time, however, her mother did not approve of the relationship and filed charges to end the romance.

Years later, Petty served 7 years for first-degree manslaughter after shooting a man. While some fans believe Minaj shouldn’t date Petty due to his criminal past, insiders revealed the two have a long history together.

Sources claim Minaj dated Petty when she was 16 years old and considers him one of her first loves. Despite his past, Minaj believes Petty has changed and the two still have chemistry. Those close to the “Barbie Dreams” rapper insist the star has never been happier with anyone else.

In the past, Minaj has dated Safaree Samuels, Meek Mill and Nas.