American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach on Thursday following allegations of battery related to a domestic violence incident, as confirmed by local authorities to The Associated Press. Ross faces one felony charge of battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor battery charge. Online court records indicate he was released on bail after the arrest.
The accusations stem from an incident on Aug. 28, where an unidentified woman living with Ross reported to local detectives that he physically assaulted her after accusing her of infidelity. The woman claimed Ross struck her multiple times, choked her with her shirt collar, and forcefully pushed her against a wall. The report was filed on Tuesday, leading to Ross surrendering himself at the police station on Thursday morning.
In response to the charges, Ross took to Instagram to proclaim his innocence, dismissing the allegations as fabricated. His legal representatives also issued a statement to CBC News asserting his innocence and confirming his not guilty plea to both charges. They urged the public to reserve judgment and let the legal process unfold.
Ross, a prominent rapper hailing from Miami, gained fame in the 2000s with hits like “Hustlin'” and later signed with Def Jam Records under Jay Z’s label. His debut album, “Port of Miami,” topped the Billboard 200 chart upon release. In 2008, he established his own music label, Maybach Music Group, where he signed notable artists such as Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for Ross’s case is scheduled for October 22. If you are facing immediate danger or experiencing intimate partner violence, seek help from crisis lines and local support services.