Handsome alleged crim blushes about viral fame

An alleged gangster who became an online celebrity for his good looks has blushed as he was told of his fame during a jailhouse interview.

Speaking to KXTV from behind glass in San Joaquin County Jail, California, Jeremy Meeks beamed out of embarrassment when discussing the remarkable response to his mugshot.

Arrested on gun possession charges earlier this week, Meeks became a viral star for his piercing blue eyes and chiselled jawline but he has insisted his criminal activities are a thing of the past.

"I just visited my wife and she said I blew up all over Facebook," he said.

"I just want them to know that this is really not me, like I'm not some kingpin."

Arrested on felony weapon charges, Meeks previously served two years in prison from 2002 for grand theft.

But Meeks said he is not a gangster any more, and his mother Katherine Angier has set up a fundraising website to help pay for legal fees.

"My son was taken into custody on his way to work," she wrote.

"He is a working man with a son. He is being stereotyped due to old tattoos."

Though he said he is not involved with gang activity any more, he still spends time with others who are.