American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach on charges related to an alleged domestic violence incident as confirmed by local authorities to The Associated Press. Ross is accused of one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor battery charge. He was later released from jail after posting a cash bond according to online court documents.
Allegedly, an unnamed woman reported to local authorities that she was residing with Ross when she claimed he accused her of infidelity on August 28 and physically assaulted her. The woman alleged that Ross choked her with her shirt collar and forcefully pushed her into a wall.
On Tuesday, a report was lodged, leading to Ross voluntarily surrendering himself at the local police precinct on Thursday. In an Instagram story released from a vehicle on Thursday, Ross repeatedly asserted his innocence, labeling the accusations as “fabricated.”
In a statement to CBC News, Ross’s legal team insists on his innocence, revealing that he has pleaded not guilty to both charges. Ross, a prominent rapper from Miami since the early 2000s, gained fame with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006 and later signed with Def Jam Records under Jay Z’s label. He established his own music label, Maybach Music Group, in 2008, signing artists such as Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for the case is set for October 22. Ross’s defense attorneys, Steve Sadow and Bradley Horenstein, have urged the public not to rush to judgment and to allow the legal process to unfold.
If you or someone you know is experiencing intimate partner violence, seek assistance from crisis lines and local support services. In cases of immediate danger, call 911.