SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

A California law relating to rap lyrics could come into play in the investigation into a deadly mass shooting in Stockton .

The Decriminalizing Artistic Expression Act, passed in 2022, limits the use of rap lyrics in criminal prosecutions and provides artists with new tools to defend themselves.

Detective Steve Hernandez from the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office said promoting criminal activity within music is not uncommon.

"They get the clout, and they get the intimidation through this music. That's the primary source," Hernandez said.

KCRA 3 learned that at least two men who were at the Nov. 29 birthday party that ended in a deadly mass shooting are connected to the Stockton rap scene. Both men were arrested for parole violations , but are not considered s

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