Rapper Rick Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts, was arrested by Miami Beach police early Thursday. He faces charges related to domestic violence, including felony battery by strangulation, according to records from Miami-Dade jail and court.
Ross, a 50-year-old musician, was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 6:10 a.m. The charges include one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor count of battery, both cited as domestic violence.
Rick Ross’ attorney, Bradley Horenstein, denied the accusations and urged the public to avoid hasty judgments. He emphasized his client’s innocence and the importance of allowing the legal process to unfold.
“All I can say is that the allegations are false. He’s innocent. Everything will come out,” Horenstein told CBS News Miami. “We ask that the process play out before rushing to judgment because the truth will emerge.”
Ross appeared via Zoom in Miami-Dade bond court Thursday morning. Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer stated she found probable cause after reviewing the arrest report, describing the case as a delayed report from an incident on August 28.
During the court hearing, Horenstein highlighted Ross’ celebrity status, requesting expedited release for his client. The judge set a total bond of $5,000—$4,000 for the felony charge and $1,000 for the misdemeanor charge.
Judge Glazer also issued a stay-away order concerning the alleged victim, who was identified only by her initials in court. Ross is prohibited from direct or indirect contact with the victim, including through third parties, social media, or electronic means. He must remain away from the victim’s home, workplace, or school.
The judge mandated Ross to surrender any firearms and concealed weapons and prohibited him from possessing firearms. He was also ordered not to engage in criminal activities or use illegal drugs while the case is pending. His arraignment is set for October 22.
This arrest follows public accusations from Ross’ former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick, who alleged he physically abused her. Kendrick claimed on social media that he injured her lip a month earlier. Ross has not publicly addressed these allegations.
Known for hits like “Hustlin’,” Ross is a Miami native who has been a major presence in hip-hop for twenty years.