American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach for alleged battery in 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 that he was released on a cash bond following the arrest.
According to reports, an unnamed woman informed local detectives that she was living with Ross when, on August 28, he accused her of infidelity and physically assaulted her. The woman claimed Ross hit her multiple times, choked her with her shirt collar, and slammed her against a wall. The incident was reported on Tuesday, and Ross voluntarily surrendered himself at the local police station on Thursday morning.
Ross later took to Instagram to assert his innocence, labeling the accusations as “fabricated.” Legal representatives for Ross, in a statement to CBC News, reiterated his innocence and mentioned that he has pleaded not guilty to both charges. They urged the public, including fans and friends, to withhold judgment and allow the legal process to proceed.
The rapper gained fame in the 2000s, particularly in Miami, with his breakout single “Hustlin'” in 2006 and subsequently signed with Jay Z’s Def Jam Records. His debut album, “Port of Miami,” debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. In 2008, he established his own label, Maybach Music Group, where he signed artists such as Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for the case is scheduled for October 22. If you are in immediate danger or need support regarding family or intimate partner violence, please contact crisis lines and local support services for assistance.
