Vanilla Ice escapes domestic battery charge

Rapper’s wife recants allegations, says physical confrontation was accident

Steve Spatafore / AP

Authorities have decided not to prosecute the rapper for a domestic battery charge after his wife, Laura, recanted her original statement.

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updated 8:09 p.m. ET April 29, 2008

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - Authorities decided against prosecuting Vanilla Ice for a domestic battery charge since his wife recanted her original statement.

The 40-year-old performer (real name: Robert Van Winkle) — who sold 15 million copies of the single “Ice Ice Baby” in 1990 — was arrested April 10 at the couple’s home. Authorities said his wife called 911 and claimed he kicked and hit her during an argument. She later told deputies he only pushed her.

In an affidavit provided to Palm Beach County prosecutors, Laura Van Winkle recanted her original allegations. She now says any physical confrontation was accidental.

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Prosecutors on Tuesday closed the case.