Rick Ross Surrenders to Police in Miami Beach Domestic Violence Case

Key points

• Rick Ross (William Leonard Roberts II) was arrested on October 1, 2026, after voluntarily surrendering to Miami Beach police.
• He faces one felony count of battery by strangulation and one misdemeanor count of battery, both classified as domestic violence.
• The alleged incident occurred on August 28 at his Star Island residence, but was not reported to police until September 29.
• Ross posted a $5,000 bond ($4,000 for the felony, $1,000 for the misdemeanor) and was released late Thursday morning.
• A stay-away order was issued, prohibiting Ross from contacting the victim or possessing firearms.
• Ross’s arraignment is scheduled for October 22, 2026.

Background

This case follows a public dispute in late September 2026, when Jazzma Kendrick, identified as the alleged victim, posted photos of a busted lip on Instagram, accusing Ross of abuse. Ross’s then-partner, Tia Kemp, publicly denied the claims, citing security footage. The current arrest formalizes these allegations into a criminal case, moving the dispute from social media to the legal system.

How outlets are covering it

CBS News and NBC 6 South Florida detail the specific allegations from the arrest affidavit, including Ross striking the victim in the chest, choking her via her hoodie collar, and slamming her against a wall. WPBF highlights the defense attorney Steve Sadow’s statement, emphasizing that the victim did not file a police report until a month after the alleged incident and that Ross is being 'wrongfully accused.' WPLG Local 10 notes that the victim, identified in court by initials J.K., had previously publicly accused Ross on social media. All sources agree on the bond amount and the October 22 arraignment date, but differ in emphasis: local news outlets focus on the police evidence (surveillance video, injury photos), while the defense narrative focuses on the delay in reporting and the lack of immediate police involvement.

Why it matters

The case highlights the legal consequences of domestic violence allegations involving high-profile figures and the role of social media in triggering public and legal scrutiny. It also underscores the procedural steps in Florida domestic violence cases, including stay-away orders and bond hearings, and the defense strategy of questioning the timeline of the report.

What to watch

Rick Ross is scheduled to appear for his arraignment on October 22, 2026. He has stated plans to travel to Dubai and Paris for performances over the weekend. The case will proceed through the Miami-Dade County court system, with the defense likely challenging the timeline of the report and the credibility of the evidence.