July 6, 2012 16:58

Dappy apologises for video message to Philip Lawrence's killer

The N-Dubz star explains why he called for convicted murderer Lee Chindamo to be freed

Photo: PA

Dappy has apologised after he called for the killer of headteacher Philip Lawrence to be released from jail.

The video for the rapper's new single 'I'm Coming (Tarzan Part 2)' includes the message "Free Leo Chindamo" in its opening credits. Chindamo began a second stint in prison last year after he apparently breached the terms of his licence by meeting a gang member, breaking a curfew and failing a breath test.

He was originally jailed for life with a minimum of 12 years for the stabbing of Lawrence, which took place outside the headteacher's West London school in December 1995.

Writing on Twitter, Dappy claimed that he "honestly wasn't aware he did that". Seeking to explain the video's message for Chindamo, the former N-Dubz star continued: "I knew his brother from when I was young. In no way did I intend to cause any upset and I didn't know about his past. My heart goes out to Mr Laurence's family and I know too well the pain of losing a loved one."

The 'I'm Coming (Tarzan Part 2)' video appeared online on Tuesday (June 3) and amassed over 225,000 views. However, as of today (July 6) the controversial promo clip appears to have been made private on YouTube.

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