Reality TV personality Sidney Starr, known for her appearances on Love & Hip Hop: New York, has reportedly been transferred to a specialized housing unit at the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta after identifying as a transgender woman during the intake process.
According to reports, the 37-year-old, whose legal name is Sidney Favors, was placed in the jail’s vulnerable population unit, which is designated for inmates who may require additional protection, including members of the LGBTQ community.
Starr was arrested on Sunday and is facing several felony charges, including sexual battery involving a person under the age of 16, aggravated child molestation, and sodomy. Authorities have stated that the case stems from allegations involving a juvenile. The charges remain allegations, and the case is ongoing.
In a statement shared with TMZ, Starr denied all accusations and said she intends to challenge them in court.
“I unequivocally deny the allegations against me and intend to vigorously defend myself through the legal process. Allegations should not be mistaken for fact, and public opinion should never replace due process.”
She also emphasized that the allegations against her should not be viewed as a reflection of the broader transgender community.
Investigators allege that the incident occurred during a stay at a hotel in Hapeville, Georgia. Starr has denied any criminal wrongdoing.
A spokesperson for the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office told TMZ that Starr’s placement in the vulnerable population unit was based solely on information she provided during the standard booking process regarding her gender identity. Officials also stated that her housing assignment is unrelated to the charges she faces and that she is not subject to any additional restrictions or special security measures beyond those applied to inmates in that unit.
The legal proceedings are continuing, and no conviction has been reached at this time.
