American rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, was taken into custody in Miami Beach for alleged battery related to 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. He was later released on bail, according to online court documents.
An unnamed woman reported to local detectives that she was living with Ross when he accused her of infidelity on August 28. She claimed that Ross physically assaulted her and choked her with her shirt collar, ultimately slamming her against a wall. The incident was reported on Tuesday, and Ross turned himself in at the local police station on Thursday morning.
In an Instagram post made from a car, Ross denied the allegations, labeling them as “fabricated.” Legal representatives for Ross stated that he has pleaded not guilty to both charges and urged the public to refrain from making premature judgments, allowing the legal process to unfold.
Ross gained prominence as a Miami-based rapper in the 2000s, achieving success with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006. He subsequently signed with Jay Z’s label Def Jam Records and released his first album, “Port of Miami,” which 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 this case is scheduled for October 22. If you are in immediate danger or affected by family or intimate partner violence, seek assistance through crisis hotlines and local support services.