Rapper Rick Ross charged with battery after domestic violence accusation

Miami Beach, Fla. (AP) – Rapper Rick Ross was apprehended early Thursday and formally charged with battery stemming from a domestic violence allegation, authorities confirmed. The 50-year-old artist, whose real name is William Roberts II, stands accused of felony battery by strangulation and misdemeanor battery, as per online court records.

Ross' legal team released a statement asserting the charges are unfounded, stating that the ex-girlfriend did not lodge a police report until a month after the alleged incident occurred. Defense attorney Steve Sadow emphasized Ross' innocence and requested the public to refrain from prejudging the matter while the judicial process unfolds.

The rapper, who is currently being held on $5,000 bail, faces an arraignment on October 22. Ross, a longtime South Florida resident, rose to fame in 2006 with his hit single "Hustlin." This track was certified platinum twice by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and propelled him to prominence in Miami's hip-hop scene.

His debut album, "Port of Miami," also achieved platinum status, debuting at the top of the Billboard 200 chart and setting the stage for subsequent chart-toppers like "Trilla" (2008) and "Deeper Than Rap" (2009). Ross has garnered nine Grammy nominations and founded the influential label Maybach Music Group (MMG) in 2008, which bolstered the careers of artists such as Wale, Meek Mill, and French Montana. His latest album, "Set In Stone," was released in July.