American rapper Rick Ross, known legally as William Roberts II, faced charges of battery following an alleged domestic violence incident in Miami Beach. The charges included one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor battery charge. Ross was released on bail after surrendering himself to authorities. The incident reportedly occurred when a woman living with Ross accused him of infidelity on August 28, leading to physical assault, including choking and slamming her into a wall.
In response to the allegations, Ross took to Instagram to proclaim his innocence, dismissing the accusations as fabricated. His legal representatives affirmed his innocence, stating that Ross pleaded not guilty to both charges. They urged the public to refrain from forming premature judgments and allow the legal process to unfold.
Rick Ross, a prominent figure in the Miami rap scene since the 2000s, gained fame with his debut single “Hustlin'” in 2006, eventually signing with Jay Z’s Def Jam Records. He achieved chart-topping success with his first album, “Port of Miami,” and later established his own label, Maybach Music Group, where he signed notable artists like Meek Mill and French Montana. An arraignment for the case is set for October 22.
If you are in immediate danger or facing domestic violence, please seek help from crisis lines and local support services.