MIAMI-DADE, Fla. — Reggaeton artist Jhayco, born Jesus Manuel Nieves Cortes, was arrested early Tuesday morning on drug possession charges, Miami-Dade jail records show.
According to the arrest report, authorities stopped a red two-door Corvette traveling slowly at about 5 mph on Southwest 8th Street just before 3 a.m. When the vehicle came to a halt and remained stationary for over a minute, deputies approached and detected a strong odor of cannabis. They also noticed white powder on Nieves Cortes’ pants and nose.
Nieves Cortes was unable to provide a driver’s license, and a record check found no license registered under his name. During a search of the car, deputies discovered two black pouches containing roughly 7 grams of suspected cannabis each. Additionally, three clear baggies with approximately two grams of suspected cocaine were found in his pockets.
He was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine and possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis. His bond was set at $3,000, and he was released later that night. Nieves Cortes did not respond to reporters as he exited the jail, covering his face.
Jhayco, 32, is a Puerto Rican reggaeton artist known for collaborations with Bad Bunny, including hits like “No Me Conoce – Remix,” “DÁKITI,” and “CÓMO SE SIENTE.” Previously performing as Jhay Cortez, his 2019 debut album “Famouz” reached number five on the Top Latin Albums chart.
