Rapper Kendo Kaponi Beat, Robbed Barber, Police Say

WINTER HAVEN, FL – The Winter Haven Police Department is asking for help finding Jose Fernando Rivera Morales. The 32-year-old man, who is also known as rapper Kendo Kaponi, is wanted in connection with the beating and robbery of a barber in late July.

According to the police department, Morales and another man attacked Jon Erik Baez-Molano, 30, outside Custom Kuts, 110 Central Ave. W., around 8:30 p.m. July 28. Police say Baez-Molano had just left through the rear of the business and gotten into his vehicle when Morales allegedly pulled him out.

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Morales “started beating him with a metallic baton while another unknown Hispanic male repeatedly punched Baez-Molano,” an email from the police department said. The unidentified man is also accused of picking up a piece of wood and beating Baez-Molano. A third man reportedly recorded the beating.

After beating Baez-Molano, Morales and the unknown attacker are accused to taking his wallet that fell from the vehicle when he was pulled out.

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Baez-Malano and Morales have reportedly known each other since 2005. What sparked the violent fight, police said, remains unclear.

Baez-Malano was treated and released from a local hospital after the beating.

Authorities say Morales, a native of Puerto Rico, “is reportedly and up-and-coming rapper with the stage name of "Kendo Kaponi.’” He reportedly performed recently in the Orlando area.

Morales faces armed burglary with assault and battery, aggravated battery and petty theft charges when captured.

Anyone with information about Morales’ whereabouts is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 800-226-TIPS. Callers will remain anonymous, police say. Tips may be worth a crash reward of up to $3,000.

Photos courtesy of the Winter Haven Police Department