American rapper Rick Ross, also known as William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach on charges of battery related to an alleged domestic violence incident, as confirmed by local authorities to The Associated Press. Ross is facing one felony count of battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor battery charge. He was later released from jail on a cash bond, as per online court records.
According to reports, an unnamed woman informed local detectives that she was residing with Ross when, on August 28, he accused her of infidelity and physically assaulted her. The woman claimed Ross struck her multiple times, choked her with her shirt collar, and forcefully pushed her into a wall.
The incident was reported on Tuesday, leading to Ross voluntarily surrendering at the local police station on Thursday morning. In an Instagram story posted from a car on the same day, Ross vehemently asserted his innocence and characterized the accusations as false claims.
In response to the allegations, Ross’ legal representatives stated to CBC News that he has pleaded not guilty to both charges and maintains his innocence. They emphasized that Ross urges his supporters and the public to refrain from forming premature judgments and to allow the legal process to unfold.
Ross, a prominent rapper based in Miami during the 2000s, gained recognition with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006, eventually securing a deal with Jay Z’s label, Def Jam Records. His first album, “Port of Miami,” debuted at the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart, leading him to establish his own label, Maybach Music Group, where he signed artists like Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for the case is scheduled for October 22. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing intimate partner violence, please seek assistance from crisis lines and local support services.