In 1967, at the height of the Rolling Stones’ fame, frontman Mick Jagger spent three nights in prison after a drug raid. The shocking details of Jagger’s arrest and incarceration have long been shrouded in secrecy – until now. After over 50 years, Jagger’s full criminal confession has finally emerged, shedding light on this pivotal episode that almost derailed his career.
The Backstory
The Redlands Bust
In February 1967, police raided Keith Richards’ country home Redlands and arrested Jagger, Richards, and others for drug offenses. Allegedly, officers found cannabis, amphetamines, and other substances. Jagger and Richards were charged with drug possession.
A Controversial Trial
Jagger and Richards went on a highly-publicized trial in June 1967. In a move that caused outrage, both were convicted and sentenced to prison. Jagger received three months while Richards got a year.
A Disastrous Outcome
The convictions were a blow to the Stones’ reputation. With Richards headed to jail for far longer, the band’s future was in jeopardy. Jagger filed an appeal.
Jagger’s Confession Revealed
After losing his appeal, Mick Jagger had one last gambit – confess to police the full story in hopes of leniency. The details of his statement remained buried in Scotland Yard’s archives – until now. Jagger revealed:
- He acknowledged using “pep” pills and cannabis occasionally
- Claimed he didn’t know heroin was present at Redlands
- Admitted allowing drug use at his home but denied dealing
- Expressed deep remorse and requested the court’s mercy
Jagger’s confession portrayed him as a drug user but not a hardened criminal. Ultimately, it earned him a reduced sentence.
Jagger’s Time Behind Bars
Even with his reduced sentence, Mick Jagger had to serve three nights in London’s Brixton Prison in July 1967.
Arrival at Brixton
The rockstar described his harrowing intake process and fear being locked in the notorious prison. Jagger was prescribed sedatives by the prison doctor to cope.
Overcrowded Conditions
Jagger shared a cell meant for one with three other prisoners. He described the “misery and solitude” of being surrounded by career criminals.
Lessons Learned
The experience gave Jagger new empathy for the incarcerated. He called his stint “frightful” but said it taught him humility.
Jagger was released after three long nights behind bars.
The Aftermath
Richards Avoids Prison
In a final twist, Keith Richards’ conviction was overturned on appeal due to lack of evidence. His year-long sentence got dropped down to probation. The Rolling Stones dodged disaster.
Renewed Fame
Jagger’s incarceration earned the Stones notoriety and street cred with fans. Their next album Their Satanic Majesties Request soared up the charts. By 1969, they were headlining concerts again, controversy forgotten.
Conclusion
Mick Jagger’s candid confession and short jail stint could have destroyed the Stones’ career. Instead, the band reinvented themselves, while Jagger gained new depth. Over 50 years later, his experiences behind bars remain insightful. Jagger’s ordeal marks a crossroads after which the Stones rose to even greater fame.