Rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts, was taken into custody by Miami Beach police early Thursday. The charges include felony battery by strangulation, as indicated by records from Miami-Dade jail and court.
He was booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 6:10 a.m. Thursday morning. The 50-year-old rapper faces both a felony charge of battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor battery charge, both classified as domestic violence.
Ross’ attorney, Bradley Horenstein, stated that the allegations against his client are false. “He’s innocent. Everything is going to come out. We ask that you allow the legal process to play out,” Horenstein told CBS News Miami.
Ross appeared via Zoom at the Miami-Dade bond court on Thursday morning. Judge Mindy Glazer remarked that she had reviewed the arrest report and found probable cause. She noted that the alleged incident occurred on August 28 and described it as a delayed report.
During the hearing, Ross’ defense requested expedited release due to his celebrity status. Judge Glazer set the bond at $4,000 for the felony charge and $1,000 for the misdemeanor, totaling $5,000. Additionally, she issued a stay-away order from the alleged victim, identified by initials in court.
Ross must avoid direct or indirect contact with the alleged victim, including third parties or electronic means, and keep away from the victim’s home, workplace, or school. The court also mandated that Ross surrender any firearms and concealed weapons, prohibiting firearm possession, engaging in criminal activity, or using illegal drugs while the case is ongoing.
His arraignment is scheduled for October 22. This arrest follows accusations from former girlfriend Jazzma Kendrick, who publicly accused Ross of physical abuse. Kendrick claimed on social media that Ross injured her lip about a month ago. Ross has not publicly addressed these claims.
Rick Ross, a native of the Miami area, is famed for hits like “Hustlin'” and has been influential in hip-hop for the past 20 years.