Miley Cyrus’ VMA date, Jesse Helt, turned himself in to Oregon police after it was revealed there was a warrant out for his arrest due to a probation violation.

Jesse Helt Accepts VMA On Cyrus' Behalf

Cyrus, who won Video of the Year for “Wrecking Ball” at Sunday night’s awards, brought Helt as her date in an effort to raise awareness of youth homelessness. Helt, 22, accepted the award on Cyrus’ behalf, delivering a heartfelt speech about youth homelessness.

“My name is Jesse, and I am accepting this award on behalf of the 1.6 million runaways and homeless youth in the United States who are starving and lost and scared for their lives right now. I know this because I am one of these people,” Helt said.

Miley Cyrus Campaigns To End Youth Homelessness

Helt kicked off Cyrus’ campaign to support the Hollywood-based homeless shelter, My Friend’s Place. As part of her campaign to “end youth homelessness,” every person who makes a $5 donation will be entered to win a trip to Brazil to see Cyrus’ ‘Bangerz’ tour.

“This campaign is about helping homeless youth have opportunity to find their inner power and potential – no matter what their circumstances,” Cyrus declared.

Jesse Helt Wanted

On Tuesday reports surfaced that there was a warrant out for Helt’s arrest in Oregon, and that Helt had been previously charged with criminal trespassing and criminal mischief. According to reports, Helt was arrested after attempting to break into an apartment in 2010 and has repeatedly violated his probation stemming from that incident.

Cyrus was quick to defend Helt, tweeting, “People who are homeless have lived very hard lives. Jesse included.”

“The media never fails to disappoint. You’ve chosen to go after Jesse instead of covering the issue of youth homelessness,” Cyrus added.

After the reports circulated, Helt turned himself in on Thursday evening, and was released that same night after paying a $2,500 bond.

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.