MIAMI BEACH, Florida — American rapper and music executive Rick Ross was arrested Thursday in Miami Beach over allegations stemming from a domestic violence incident involving a woman with whom authorities say he had been in a relationship.
Ross, whose legal name is William Leonard Roberts II, faces a felony charge of battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor battery charge. Both charges are classified as domestic violence-related offenses.
According to police, the 50-year-old rapper voluntarily surrendered to Miami Beach authorities before being booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center early Thursday morning.
Alleged Incident at Star Island Home
The charges stem from an alleged confrontation at Ross’ Star Island residence on August 28.
According to the arrest report, the woman told investigators that Ross became angry after she was tagged in a photograph on Instagram. She alleged that an argument followed, during which Ross struck her multiple times.
Authorities further allege that Ross restricted the woman’s breathing by grabbing and twisting the collar of a hoodie she was wearing. She also accused him of grabbing her by the hair, slamming her against a wall and striking her in the face, causing an injury to her lip.
The allegations remain unproven in court.
Police said investigators obtained a statement from the woman, photographs documenting alleged injuries and surveillance footage as part of their investigation.
Ross Pleads Not Guilty
Ross has denied the accusations.
His attorney, Bradley Horenstein, entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf and urged the public not to reach conclusions before the case is heard in court.
Ross appeared before a Miami-Dade judge following his arrest. Bond was set at a total of $5,000, and he was subsequently released after posting bond.
The court also ordered Ross to stay away from the alleged victim and prohibited direct or indirect contact while the criminal case remains pending.
Speaking after his release, Ross maintained that he was innocent and described the allegations against him as fabricated.
Arraignment Set for October
Ross is scheduled to be arraigned on October 22.
The arrest represents a significant legal development for the Grammy-nominated rapper, who rose to international prominence with his 2006 hit “Hustlin’” and later established Maybach Music Group.
As the case proceeds, prosecutors will be required to prove the charges in court. Ross is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Comments