Rapper Rick Ross Arrested in Miami on Domestic Violence Charges

Rapper Rick Ross, known legally as William Leonard Roberts, was arrested by Miami Beach police early Thursday. He faces serious legal charges, including felony battery by strangulation, as indicated by Miami-Dade jail and court records.

Ross, aged 50, was detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center at 6:10 a.m. He is charged with one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor count of battery. Both charges are classified under domestic violence offenses.

Ross’ legal representative, Bradley Horenstein, contested the allegations, urging the public to withhold judgment as legal proceedings occur. Horenstein stated, “The allegations are false. He’s innocent. Everything will come out as the legal process unfolds.”

The rapper appeared via Zoom in Miami-Dade bond court on Thursday morning. Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer acknowledged a probable cause following the arrest report’s review. She characterized the incident as a delayed report dating back to August 28.

During the court session, Horenstein requested expedited release for Ross due to his celebrity status. Judge Glazer set the bond at $4,000 for felony battery by strangulation and $1,000 for misdemeanor battery, totaling $5,000.

Additionally, a stay-away order was issued, prohibiting Ross from interacting with the alleged victim, identified only by initials. He is barred from direct or indirect communication, including through social media or other devices, and must avoid the victim’s residence, workplace, or school.

Ross must surrender any firearms and concealed weapons, with a prohibition on possessing firearms while the case is pending. He is also restricted from engaging in criminal acts or using illegal substances.

The arraignment is set for October 22. The arrest follows public accusations from Ross’ former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick, who claimed abuse occurred about a month prior. Kendrick alleged injuries on social media, citing an incident where Ross hurt her lip. Ross has not publicly commented on these claims.

Rick Ross has been a significant figure in hip-hop, with roots in the Miami area and famous tracks like “Hustlin’.”