American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach on charges of battery linked 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 a misdemeanor battery charge. He was subsequently released on bail according to online court documents.
Reports indicate that an unidentified woman informed local detectives that she was living with Ross when, on August 28, he purportedly accused her of infidelity and physically assaulted her. The woman alleged that Ross choked her with her shirt collar and forcefully pushed her against a wall.
Following the filing of a report on Tuesday, Ross voluntarily surrendered himself at the local police station on Thursday morning. In an Instagram story posted from a car on the same day, Ross vehemently maintained his innocence, denouncing the allegations as “fabricated.”
In a statement to CBC News, Ross’s legal team asserts his innocence, stating that he has pleaded not guilty to the charges. They urge Ross’s friends, fans, and the public to reserve judgment and allow the legal process to unfold.
Ross gained prominence as a Miami-based rapper in the 2000s, achieving fame with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006 and eventually signing with Jay Z’s Def Jam Records label. His first album, “Port of Miami,” debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. In 2008, he established his own label, Maybach Music Group, and signed artists like Meek Mill and French Montana.
An arraignment for the case is scheduled for October 22. If you are in immediate danger or facing intimate partner violence, seek help through crisis lines and local support services.