Posted by Miami-based artist Rick Ross has officially entered a not guilty plea to one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor count of battery. The legal proceedings follow his arrest earlier this week, which has drawn significant public attention.
The rapper appeared in court on the morning of Thursday, Oct. 1, after voluntarily turning himself in to authorities to address the domestic violence accusations. Following the formal entry of his plea, the MMG founder was released on a $5,000 bond.
During the court hearing, legal counsel for the artist, Steve Sadow, requested an expedited release, citing his client’s high-profile status. However, Judge Mindy S. Glazer remained impartial, stating, “I have no idea who you are, except for somebody here in the court who’s going to be treated fairly just like everybody else here.”
The charges stem from an incident reported by the rapper’s ex-girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick. According to reports, Kendrick contacted police on Tuesday, Sept. 29, alleging that the artist had been physically violent during an altercation on Aug. 28. Kendrick claims the dispute began over a social media post, eventually escalating into a physical confrontation. The police report alleges that the artist struck her multiple times and restricted her breathing by pulling on her clothing.
As the legal process continues, the industry remains focused on the unfolding developments surrounding these serious allegations.