Rick Ross has released a statement to TMZ regarding the lawsuit he and his associate Thaddeus “Black” James are involved in. A woman is accusing Black of rape and also names Ross in the lawsuit. In the statement, Ross says he's not directly involved in the matter and James is an independent contractor that he often works with. Read the full statement below.

"It has been brought to my attention that serious allegations have been made against an independent contractor, who's services I use often. And while I am not directly involved or implicated, as a man and a father, I take this very seriously. I don't believe any woman's safety should be compromised and she should never be forced to do anything outside of her will, regardless of the circumstances." Ross adds, "While I personally have no knowledge of the specifics surrounding these allegations, it is my hope that this is rectified quickly and with sensitivity."

Yesterday (Sept. 21) it was reported that a woman said that she was invited by Ross, James and their entourage to a marijuana convention. The woman claimed that she was given a drink, which made her dizzy and caused her to pass out. She went back to Black's hotel room and passed out again. When she woke up the next morning and examined herself, she realized she had been sexually assaulted. The lawsuit names both Black and Ross, because the woman believes Black was employed by Ross and the MMG boss should be held accountable for his employees actions.

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