Boxing star Ryan Garcia was arrested for felony vandalism after allegedly causing thousands of dollars worth of damage to a Beverly Hills hotel — and he later compared himself to Britney Spears and former President Donald Trump.
The Beverly Hills Police Department confirmed that Garcia was arrested on Saturday for causing $15,000 in damage to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Southern California, ABC 7 in Los Angeles reported.
Following the boxer’s arrest, he was taken to the hospital after complaining of medical issues. Later, he was released on bail.
After his arrest, Garcia went on several rants on social media asking for prayers and comparing his treatment to that of Trump, who was recently convicted by a New York jury in the hush-money trial.
“Prayer warriors. Please I need prayers,” the boxer’s post on X read. “A lot of prayers. Prayers can move mountains. LORD JESUS SAVE ME.”
BREAKING: RYAN GARCIA ARRESTED IN LOS ANGELES FOR FELONY VANDALISM
He apparently appeared to be under the influence but cooperated with the police. pic.twitter.com/AptpVJvp0C
— Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) June 9, 2024
“Kinda funny both Trump and I are in jail,” he added in a second post. “I don’t know if he is in jail but I know he got convicted. This sucks, But I love Jesus I will be okay.”
“I feel like I’m Ryan Spears Aka Britney Spears,” Garcia continued in a third post. “This sucks 🙁 I never hurt anyone. I’ve only ever loved everyone prayed for people. And try to make a change in this cruel world. I love you Christ Jesus Amen.”
Attorney Darin T. Chavez, representing Garcia, released a statement after the arrest and said the boxer was dealing with some “extraordinarily challenging” issues, “as he has been grappling with devastating news regarding his mother’s health.”
“First and foremost, we urge everyone to respect Ryan’s privacy during this difficult period,” the statement read. “Ryan has been open about his struggles with mental health over the years and at this time he is dealing with an immense emotional burden.”
“The support and understanding from fans and the public are crucial as he navigates these personal challenges,” the statement added. “We are working diligently to provide Ryan with the resources he needs. Our team is committed to ensuring that he receives the appropriate help and care to address both his immediate and long-term well-being. We ask for continued support and compassion as Ryan focuses on his family and his health at this time.”
The boxer is also facing a possible suspension from the New York Athletic Commission after testing positive for banned substances the day before and the day of his last fight in April. A decision is forthcoming, ABC noted.