American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach on Thursday following an alleged incident of domestic violence, as confirmed by local authorities to The Associated Press. Ross faces charges of one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor battery charge. He was subsequently released from jail after posting a cash bond, as indicated by online court documents.
An unnamed woman reported to local detectives that she was assaulted by Ross on August 28 while living with him. She claimed Ross accused her of infidelity and physically attacked her, including choking her with her shirt collar and pushing her against a wall. The incident was reported on Tuesday, leading to Ross turning himself in at the police station on Thursday morning.
Ross took to Instagram to assert his innocence, dismissing the allegations as false. His legal representatives have stated that Ross has pleaded not guilty to the charges and are urging the public to allow the legal process to unfold without prejudice.
The rapper, known for his success in the Miami music scene since the early 2000s, gained prominence with hits like “Hustlin'” and later established his own record label, Maybach Music Group. An arraignment for Ross’s case is scheduled for October 22.
If you are in immediate danger or facing intimate partner violence, please seek help through crisis lines and local support services.