Rapper Rick Ross faced arrest by Miami Beach police early Thursday. He is charged with domestic violence, including felony battery by strangulation, according to Miami-Dade jail and court records. Known legally as William Leonard Roberts, Ross was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 6:10 a.m.
The 50-year-old rapper is facing one felony count of battery by strangulation alongside a misdemeanor battery count. Both charges relate to domestic violence.
Ross’ legal representative, Bradley Horenstein, contests these allegations. Horenstein emphasized his client’s innocence and urged the public to let the legal procedures unfold before forming opinions. He stated, “All I can say is that the allegations are false. He’s innocent. Everything is going to come out.”
Ross appeared through Zoom in Miami-Dade bond court on Thursday morning. Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer stated she reviewed the arrest report, finding probable cause. Judge Glazer noted this was a delayed report with the alleged incident occurring on August 28.
“We just ask that you allow the process to play out before rushing to judgment, because the truth will come in.” — Bradley Horenstein, attorney for Rick Ross
During the hearing, Horenstein highlighted Ross’ celebrity status, requesting an expedited release. The judge set a bond of $4,000 for the strangulation charge and $1,000 for the misdemeanor, totaling $5,000. Glazer also issued a stay-away order concerning the alleged victim, who was identified by her initials in court.
Ross must avoid any direct or indirect contact with the alleged victim. This includes avoidance via third parties, social media, or other electronic means. He must also stay away from the victim’s home, workplace, or school. Additionally, Ross must surrender any firearms and is prohibited from drug use or engaging in criminal activities while the case is ongoing.
His arraignment is set for October 22. This arrest follows accusations from former girlfriend Jazzma Kendrick, which Ross has not publicly addressed. Kendrick alleged on social media that Ross physically hurt her, causing a lip injury a month earlier.
Ross, hailing from Miami, has been a prominent hip-hop figure with hits like “Hustlin'” over the past two decades.
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