An arrest warrant has been issued for a local rapper after police say that he and an unidentified man attacked a man in Winter Haven in July.
On July 28, Winter Haven Police say that 32-year-old Jose Fernando Rivera Morales, also known as rapper "Kendo Kaponi," along with an unidentified male attacked 30-year-old Jon Erik Baez-Molano behind Custom Kuts in Winter Haven.
Baez-Molano, who works at Custom Kuts as a barber, was exiting the back of the business heading to his car. Once he got into his vehicle, Morales pulled him out of the vehicle and started beating him with a metallic baton while another unknown Hispanic male repeatedly punched Baez-Molano. The unknown suspect then picks up a piece of wood and beats Baez-Molano as well. A third Hispanic male is seen recording the incident.
After the beating, Morales and the other suspect go into Baez-Molano's vehicle and take his wallet that fell to the floorboard as he was dragged out. The three men then leave the area. Baez-Molano was transported to Winter Haven Hospital where he was treated and released.
Baez-Molano has known Morales since 2005 but police say that it is unclear what provoked the attack.
Morales, from Puerto Rico, is reportedly an up-and-coming rapper with the stage name of "Kendo Kaponi" and has recently performed in the Orlando area.
Morales is charged with Armed Burglary with Assault/Battery, Aggravated Battery and Petit Theft.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Morales is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-8477. Callers will remain anonymous and could be eligible for a CASH reward of up to $3,000.
