Madonna is supporting her 16-year-old son Rocco Ritchie following his recent arrest in London. The singer described the 28 September incident as a "family matter" in a statement to Associated Press on Wednesday, adding: "I love my son very much. I will do whatever I can to give him the support he needs, and I ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
News of Rocco's arrest was only revealed this week, fowling reports that the teen was allegedly caught with a small amount of cannabis near the Primrose Hill home he shares with his father, British director Guy Ritchie.
Madonna has asked for privacy for her family following reports of Rocco's recent arrest
A police spokesperson told HELLO! Online: "A 16-year-old youth has been arrested for possession of cannabis. The arrest follows a stop and search by officers from Camden borough at around 5.15pm on Wednesday, September 28 at Steeles Mews North.
"The youth was taken to a north London police station. He was subsequently bailed and dealt with by Camden borough's Youth Offending Team. He was dealt with by way of Triage, which uses multiple strands to engage and educate young people in order to prevent re-offending."
Rocco pictured with his father Guy Ritchie
In early September, Madonna visited her son in London after settling her eight-month custody battle with ex-husband Guy. Their dispute began in December 2015 when Rocco refused to travel with the star on her Rebel Heart tour, choosing instead to remain in London with his father.
Madonna launched legal action in both the UK and the US – but the former couple eventually reached a settlement, just hours before they were due to appear in court in New York, agreeing that Rocco would remain in London, where he also attends school.