Oakland rapper Philthy Rich facing federal charges

One of the Bay Area’s best-known rappers who’s also known as an anti-violence spokesman is out on bail while facing federal charges of attempting to illegally acquire firearms in Las Vegas.

Philthy Rich, whose given name is Phillip Beasley, was charged in late July with conspiracy to make false statements in acquisition of a firearm, as well as one count of making a false statement in the purchase of a firearm. He pleaded not guilty at an Aug. 3court appearance in Las Vegas, then was released from jail the next day.