MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Rapper Rick Ross was arrested in Miami Beach early Thursday and charged with battery related to a domestic violence accusation, authorities said.
Ross, whose real name is William Roberts II, faces serious charges, including felony battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor battery charge, according to online court records.
An attorney representing Ross, Steve Sadow, stated that Ross is being wrongfully accused by an ex-girlfriend, and the reasons behind these accusations remain unclear. Sadow emphasized that “the ex did not even file a police report until a month after the claimed incident allegedly took place.” He added that “Mr. Roberts is innocent and has pled not guilty to the charges,” urging the public not to prejudge the situation and allow the legal system to do its work.
As of Thursday morning, jail records indicated that Ross was being held on a $5,000 bail. His arraignment is set for October 22.
This isn’t the first time Ross has faced legal troubles. In 2017, he pleaded no contest to charges of kidnapping and assault. He was accused of holding two groundskeepers against their will at his home in suburban Atlanta. Reports indicated that Ross also allegedly assaulted one of the men with a pistol, causing serious injuries. Ross has denied these allegations, claiming the groundskeepers were trying to extort him.
Rick Ross, a well-known figure in the music industry and a resident of South Florida, rose to fame in 2006 with his hit single “Hustlin.’” This song was a major success, earning double platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and leading to a bidding war for his talents. He eventually signed with Def Jam Records, a label founded by hip-hop icon Jay-Z.
His debut album, “Port of Miami,” also achieved platinum status and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This success was just the beginning, as he continued to release chart-topping albums, including “Trilla” (2008) and “Deeper Than Rap” (2009). Over his career, Ross has received nine Grammy Award nominations.
In addition to his music career, Ross founded the influential Maybach Music Group (MMG) in 2008, which has helped launch the careers of artists like Wale, Meek Mill, and French Montana. His most recent album, “Set In Stone,” was released in July, showcasing his continued relevance in the industry.
