Tommy Lee Sparta’s management requests prayers for deejay

News of dancehall entertainer Tommy Lee Sparta's hospitalisation prompted an outpouring of prayer and support from fans and fellow dancehall entertainers and personalities.

Among those sending love include Beenie Man, Tony Matterhorn and Daniiboo, under a post made by his management team on Instagram.

"This is to inform all supporters, friends, family and fans that we are aware of the situation with our dear family member and client, Leroy Junior Russell [the artiste's given name]. We are monitoring everything very closely," the post read. "We truly appreciate all your prayers and positive vibrational energy for his speedy recovery."

It was alleged that Tommy Lee Sparta was involved in an altercation with correctional officers at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in downtown Kingston yesterday morning, which left the artiste unconscious. Reports are that he was first taken to the medical orderly at the prison for examination but his injuries required further attention and he was then transferred to the public hospital.

Nicole Taban, the owner of Boss Lady Muzik, the official management and record label for the artiste, referred to the post when THE STAR contacted her about his condition. She only shared that she was making her way to Jamaica from Miami. The artiste's attorney, Donahue Martin, said "I really couldn't comment on it." The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) later confirmed that an inmate was injured but did not name him.

"Reports received from the acting superintendent on duty are that the inmate refused to re-enter his cell following the distribution of breakfast. Upon repeat of the command, the inmate hurled his breakfast at the staff officer in retaliation. He was subdued by the officer and both parties received injuries," the DCS said in a statement. An investigation has since been launched.

Tommy Lee Sparta was arrested in December 2020 after he was found with a firearm when a motor vehicle in which he was travelling was intercepted by members of the police's Specialised Operations Unit. He pleaded guilty last March and was sentenced to serve three years for possession of the illegal firearm, and two years for illegal possession of ammunition. The sentences are concurrent.