American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was arrested in Miami Beach on Thursday on charges of battery related to an alleged domestic violence incident, as confirmed by local authorities to The Associated Press. Ross faces one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor battery charge. He was released on a cash bond following his arrest.
According to reports, an unnamed woman informed local detectives that she was living with Ross when she claimed he accused her of infidelity on Aug. 28. She alleged that Ross physically assaulted her multiple times, choked her with her shirt collar, and forcefully pushed her against a wall. The incident was reported on Tuesday, leading to Ross surrendering himself at the local police station on Thursday morning.
In an Instagram story shared from a car on Thursday, Ross maintained his innocence and dismissed the accusations as “fabricated allegations.” His legal representatives issued a statement to CBC News, asserting Ross’s innocence and stating that he has pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Ross, a prominent Miami-based rapper since the 2000s, gained fame with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006 and later signed with Jay Z’s label, Def Jam Records. His first album, “Port of Miami,” debuted at the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2008, he established his own label, Maybach Music Group, and signed artists such as Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for Ross’s case is set for Oct. 22. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing family or intimate partner violence, please seek help from crisis lines and local support services.
