Rapper Rick Ross was released from a Miami-area jail Thursday after being arrested on domestic violence charges, telling reporters he is “totally innocent” as he prepared to resume his music career and travel plans.
Ross was arrested Thursday morning on felony battery by strangulation and misdemeanor battery charges. The charges followed allegations involving a former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick, who reportedly contacted police Tuesday before Ross surrendered two days later.
The allegations remain unresolved, and Ross has denied wrongdoing.
After his release, Ross quickly returned to his flamboyant public persona. He told reporters he planned to travel to Dubai Friday and Paris Saturday before spending Sunday eating rigatoni with “heavy marinara.”
“I’m totally innocent,” Ross said after leaving custody.
During his court appearance, Ross’ attorney asked the judge to expedite his release, citing the rapper’s celebrity status and concerns about his safety while detained.
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.
Rapper Rick Ross Released On Bond, Issues Statement To Media On Jazzma Kendrick’s Assault Claims: “I’m Totally Innocent”
Ross later addressed the arrest on Instagram while promoting his music. He also boasted about his stature in popular culture, writing, “I’m bigger than Justin Bieber.”
The rapper predicted that news helicopters would soon circle his mansion once the weather cleared. He also compared the media attention surrounding his arrest with the intense coverage that followed O.J. Simpson.
Ross said he planned to return to the recording studio and instructed his team to have the facility ready. His comments emphasized music, travel and his trademark bravado despite the pending criminal case.
Kendrick has publicly accused Ross of physical abuse, but it has not been established whether those allegations are directly connected to the charges against him.
Ross’ release does not resolve the case. The criminal proceedings remain pending as authorities continue addressing the allegations.
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