Rapper Rick Ross was arrested in Miami Beach after voluntarily surrendering to police over domestic violence-related charges.
Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts II, faces one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor count of battery. Both charges are classified as domestic violence offenses.
The charges stem from an alleged incident at Ross’s Star Island home on August 28. According to the arrest affidavit, a woman told police that Ross struck her several times and restricted her breathing during an argument.
Ross Denies Allegations
Ross’s attorney, Bradley Horenstein, has denied the allegations and said his client is innocent.
During a court hearing on Thursday, Horenstein entered a not-guilty plea on Ross’s behalf. The rapper later told reporters that he was “totally innocent” of what he described as fabricated allegations.
Ken Urker, Gypsy Rose Blanchard’s Partner and Daughter’s Father, Dies at 34
The defense also asked the court to expedite Ross’s release. Horenstein cited the rapper’s celebrity status and concerns about his safety while in custody.
Judge Mindy Glazer rejected any suggestion that Ross should receive special treatment because of his fame.
“I have no idea who you are,” Glazer told Ross during the hearing, adding that he would be treated fairly like everyone else in court.
Court Sets Bond
The court set Ross’s bond at $5,000. He was released after posting bond later Thursday.
The judge also issued a stay-away order involving the alleged victim. Ross was ordered to avoid direct and indirect contact with her while the case proceeds.
His formal arraignment is scheduled for October 22, 2026.
Alleged August Incident
According to the arrest affidavit, the woman told investigators that Ross became angry after seeing her tagged in an Instagram photo.
She alleged that he questioned her about another man and then struck her during the confrontation. The affidavit also alleges that Ross restricted her breathing by grabbing and twisting the collar of her clothing.
Police said the woman provided photographs of injuries that were taken around the time of the alleged incident. Investigators also reviewed surveillance footage as part of the case.
Ross declined to give a statement to police on the advice of his lawyer, according to authorities.
The allegations have not been proven in court. Ross remains entitled to the presumption of innocence as the legal proceedings continue.
