NAPLES, Fla. — Franky Venegas, widely recognized as one half of the viral rap duo the “Island Boys,” was arrested on Sunday, February 23, 2025, in Naples, Florida. The 23-year-old faces charges of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and possession of a firearm with an altered serial number.
Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest
The incident began around 10 p.m. when deputies from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a yellow Corvette that failed to come to a complete stop at a stop sign near the intersection of Immokalee Road and Oil Well Road. Venegas was a passenger in the vehicle, which was driven by 25-year-old Olivia Dubois. Initial checks revealed expired registration tags; however, further verification confirmed the vehicle’s registration was current. Despite this, deputies proceeded with the stop due to the traffic violation.
Discovery of Contraband
During the stop, a K-9 unit was deployed, leading to a search of the vehicle. Deputies discovered a clear plastic bag containing seven 10 mg oxycodone pills and five oxycodone-acetaminophen pills on the passenger side floorboard. Venegas denied ownership of the pills and claimed ignorance of their presence. He later stated he had a prescription for oxycodone but was unable to provide proof at the scene.
Further inspection revealed a brown handbag labeled “MCM” under the passenger seat. Inside the bag, deputies found a Glock handgun that had been spray-painted blue, obscuring its serial number, along with a clear plastic straw and credit cards bearing Venegas’ name. The firearm’s altered serial number led to the weapons charge.
Legal Proceedings and Prior Arrests
Venegas was arrested and transported to the Naples Jail Center. He was released on bond the following day and is scheduled to appear in court on March 17, 2025.
This arrest adds to Venegas’ legal troubles. In May 2024, he was arrested in Fort Lauderdale for allegedly impersonating his twin brother, Alex Venegas, during a traffic stop for reckless driving. Additionally, in 2023, he faced domestic battery charges in Broward County after an incident involving his girlfriend; those charges were later dropped.
Rise to Fame
Franky and Alex Venegas, known by their stage names Kodiyakredd and Flyysoulja respectively, gained widespread attention in 2021 with their viral hit “I’m an Island Boy.” The song’s unique style and the duo’s distinctive appearance—characterized by extensive tattoos and unconventional hairstyles—propelled them to internet fame, amassing millions of views across social media platforms.
Public and Legal Implications
The recent arrest raises questions about the responsibilities that come with internet fame, especially for young artists thrust into the spotlight. Legal experts suggest that Venegas’ prior arrests could influence the outcome of his current charges, potentially leading to more severe penalties if convicted.
As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by viral sensations in managing sudden fame and the importance of making prudent decisions amidst public scrutiny.
Natalia is a Rap and Hip Hop enthusiast. After graduating from The New School of New York’s Public Relations Program and taking a course in Journalism at Michigan State University, she decided to dedicate her life to the music publishing business and to the discovery of new talent. She helps new artists gain exposure to the masses via online marketing and publications.