Following his arrest for soliciting a prostitute, who turned out to be an undercover female police officer, soul singer D'Angelo has released a statement to his fans and revealed that he is pleading not guilty to the charges.

"We know there is a lot of speculation in regard to the arrest of D'Angelo in New York City this past weekend," read the statement from his rep, Lindsay Guion.

"We would like his fans and the public at large to know that D'Angelo has plead not guilty -- and is contesting the allegations made against him. Also know that he is in good health and extremely excited about his forthcoming new album."

The singer also sent his thanks to loyal fans who have expressed concern over his well being. "D'Angelo would like to personally thank all of his fans for the outpouring of concern, and appreciates if all would allow the American justice system to resolve the matter before jumping to conclusions."

According to reports, D'Angelo, whose real name is Michael Archer, was cruising in his Range Rover in the West Village area of New York City on Saturday (March 6) around 2:30 a.m., when he allegedly offered an undercover policewoman $40 in exchange for oral sex.

- By Sharniece Moore