Rick Ross Arrested on Domestic Battery Charges in Miami

Arrest and Courtroom Interaction

The prominent figure in the genre of Hip Hop, Rick Ross (born William Roberts), was taken into custody and booked on Thursday, October 1. Following his arrest by Miami Beach police, he was held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. Hours later, the rapper appeared for a remote arraignment while still in custody, wearing a red jumpsuit.

During the proceedings, Ross’ attorney, Bradley Horenstein, requested that Judge Mindy Glazer expedite the release process. Horenstein cited his client's status as a public figure as a reason for the request. Footage obtained by TMZ captured the exchange between the legal counsel and the bench. Horenstein stated:

"Mr. Roberts is a celebrity … I’d ask that his release be expedited. He’s in a red jumpsuit."

— Bradley Horenstein

Judge Glazer responded by emphasizing that the court would maintain a standard of impartial treatment regardless of the defendant's fame. She informed the courtroom that she was unfamiliar with the rapper's professional career:

"Hi, Mr. Roberts. I have no idea who you are except as someone here in the court who’s going to be treated fairly like everybody else here."

— Judge Mindy Glazer

The interaction drew a public reaction from Ross’ long-term rival, 50 Cent, who shared the courtroom clip on Instagram. Commenting on the judge's lack of recognition, 50 Cent wrote:

"The judge don’t know that fool LOL BOOK HIS STUPID ASS."

— 50 Cent

Legal Allegations and Defense Statement

The legal team representing Rick Ross, comprised of attorneys Steve Sadow and Bradley Horenstein, has formally denied the allegations. According to a statement shared with both Billboard and Pitchfork, the defense maintains that the rapper is being "wrongfully accused" by an ex-girlfriend. The statement highlights a delay between the alleged incident and the filing of the police report.

"William Roberts II, professionally known as Rick Ross, is being wrongfully accused by an ex-girlfriend whose true motivations are unclear. The ex did not even file a police report until Sept. 29, a month after the claimed incident allegedly took place on Aug. 28, 2026. Mr. Roberts is innocent and has pled not guilty to the charges. He respectfully requests that his friends, fans and the general public not prejudge the situation and allow the judicial process to run its course."

— Steve Sadow and Bradley Horenstein

The charges against the rapper include a felony count of battery by strangulation and a count of misdemeanor battery. While Ross has since posted bond and been released from custody, his next legal appearance is already scheduled. An arraignment for the case is set for October 22.

Background of the Accusations

The arrest followed public claims made by Ross’ former partner, Jazzma Kendrick. On the Sunday prior to the booking, Kendrick utilized her Instagram Story to accuse the rapper of physical abuse. Her posts included photographs intended to document the alleged violence, which were subsequently captured by People magazine. In her public statement, Kendrick wrote:

"I don’t know a lot of things, but I do know that a man that puts his hands on me is a man that never loved me and never will."

— Jazzma Kendrick

While the charges are linked to domestic violence, it has not been officially confirmed by police whether Kendrick’s public accusations are the direct basis for the current charges. Miami Beach police did not provide an immediate arrest report or further details regarding the specific circumstances of the booking when requested.

Artist Context and Resources

Rick Ross, whose career in the music industry dates back to the formation of his professional identity in 1976, has remained a central figure in the Miami music scene. He recently performed at the James L. Knight Center on May 29, 2026, as part of the "Rick Ross: Port Of Miami Orchestra Reunion Tour."

For individuals seeking support regarding domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides free and confidential assistance 24/7. Support can be reached by calling 1-800-799-7233 or by texting the word "start" to 88788.