Rick Ross Avoids Jail Time In Kidnapping Case, Gets Probation

In 2015, “Rather You Than Me” rapper Rick Ross and his bodyguard allegedly forced two of his employees into a guest house and attacked them after learning about a party they threw at his house without his permission. Facing kidnapping and assault charges, the rapper pleaded no contest on Tuesday.

Instead of jail time, Rick Ross, real name William Leonard Roberts, and his bodyguard were sentenced to five years probation. “The resolution to the case was reached after discussion with the prosecution team, victims and law enforcement,” Fayette County District Attorney Benjamin D. Coker told the Atlanta Journal Constitution. “It was the best resolution to the case considering the facts and circumstances at hand.”

The “Idols Become Rivals” rapper has tried a number of times to have the case thrown out, claiming self defense, but the jury never agreed. Ross also tried to use the stand your ground law on Tuesday before entering the plea deal.

Along with the kidnapping and assault charges, the rapper also pleaded no contest to five misdemeanors. As part of the probation, Ross and his bodyguard cannot have drugs, alcohol or any contact with the victims. But luckily for Ross’ career, his travel will reportedly not be restricted.

The rapper has already spent one week in jail after his arrest and was ordered to pay a $10,000 fine. Since Ross is reportedly being charged as first-time felony offender, his conviction will be erased from his record, Billboard reports.

In March, Ross became a hot topic in hip-hop not because of his legal issues but thanks to his Birdman diss, “Idols Become Rivals.” According to the hip-hop artist, his reason for the diss was because of Birdman’s treatment of Lil Wayne and DJ Khaled. “If you burn those two [Khaled and Lil Wayne], I already know know how you feel about me, and I just don’t respect it.”