Rapper Coolio has avoided jail after he admitted carrying a concealed gun at Los Angeles International Airport.

The US musician was arrested after the handgun was discovered in his bag during security screening on September 17.

Coolio, whose real name is Artis Leon Ivey, pleaded guilty to carrying a concealed firearm as a felon when he appeared at Los Angeles’ Airport Courthouse on Wednesday.

He was sentenced to 45 days community service and banned from owning or possessing guns during a three-year probation period.

Speaking outside the courtroom, Coolio said: “A mistake was made. It was a misunderstanding.

“I don’t condone the use of firearms, illegal or legal.

“Thanks to the court and the attorneys for handling this for me.

“I was very worried.

“I don’t do crime. I’m not into anything illegal.”

Coolio
(Richard Shotwell/AP/PA)

Coolio had faced a maximum three-year prison sentence after he was originally charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a felon with two prior convictions.

The charge was waived by prosecutors after Coolio agreed to enter a guilty plea to the lesser charge.

Police said at the time of his arrest that the confiscated gun was loaded.

Coolio
(Zak Hussein/PA)

A list of weapons that Coolio was banned from owning or possessing while on probation included handguns, rifles, shotguns, machetes, tear gas, pepper spray and ammunition, the court heard.

His conviction will be reduced from a felony to a misdemeanour if he completes his first year of probation successfully.