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Rapper MoneySign Suede, whose real name was Jaime Brugada Valdez, tragically lost his life at the age of 22 while serving time in a California prison.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) confirmed his death in a press release, revealing that Valdez was found with fatal injuries at a housing unit in Soledad, California.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when he was discovered missing from his cell during a routine check.
A Violent Homicide
According to Valdez’s attorney, Nicholas Rosenberg, the rapper was attacked in the prison shower and suffered a fatal stabbing to the neck.
Rosenberg also revealed that his client had previously been subjected to violence while incarcerated.
The shocking nature of the incident has left many in disbelief, as Valdez was known for his mild-mannered personality and had a strong following.
The CDCR has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Valdez’s death.
The case is being handled by the Investigative Services Unit and the Monterey County district attorney’s office.
As part of the investigation, movement within the prison has been restricted to facilitate the inquiry and gather crucial evidence.
Mourning the Loss of a Rising Star
Valdez, known by his stage name MoneySign Suede, had a promising career ahead of him in the music industry.
He signed with Atlantic Records in 2021 and released two albums last year, namely “Moneysign Suede” and “Parkside Baby.”
His talent and popularity had garnered him a dedicated fan base, making his untimely demise all the more devastating for his supporters.
Legal Troubles and Incarceration
Prior to his tragic death, Valdez had faced legal issues that resulted in his imprisonment.
He was sentenced in Riverside County on December 22, 2022, to a prison term of two years and eight months for possession/owning a firearm as a second-striker while being a felon or addict.
Concurrently, he was serving a one-year and four-month sentence for possession/owning a firearm with a conviction of a violent felony, as stated by the CDCR.
