Miami Beach police arrested rapper Rick Ross on Thursday morning, on charges related to domestic violence. Court records from Miami-Dade indicate the charges include felony battery by strangulation.
Rick Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts, was taken into custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 6:10 a.m. The 50-year-old faces one felony count of battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor count of battery, both linked to domestic violence.
Bradley Horenstein, Ross’ attorney, rejected the allegations, appealing to the public for patience as the legal process unfolds. Horenstein stated, All I can say is that the allegations are false. He’s innocent. Everything is going to come out. We just ask that you allow the process to play out before rushing to judgment, because the truth will come in.
Ross appeared via Zoom in Miami-Dade bond court. Judge Mindy Glazer found probable cause after reviewing the arrest report. The alleged incident reportedly occurred on August 28, although it was reported later.
Horenstein stressed Ross’ celebrity status and requested expedited release. Judge Glazer set a bond of $4,000 for the felony and $1,000 for the misdemeanor, totaling $5,000. A stay-away order was issued for the alleged victim, identified only by initials in court. Ross is prohibited from any contact with the victim through any means and must avoid their home, workplace, or school.
Ross must also surrender any firearms and is barred from possessing weapons. He cannot engage in criminal activities or use illegal drugs while the case is open. His arraignment is set for October 22.
The arrest follows allegations from former girlfriend Jazzma Kendrick, who accused Ross of physical abuse. Kendrick claimed on social media that Ross injured her lip in an incident a month prior. Ross has not addressed these claims publicly.
Ross, a native of the Miami area, is prominent in the hip-hop scene, known for hits such as “Hustlin'”. Nikiya Carrero also contributed to this report.