US RnB singer Chris Brown has appeared in London’s Southwark Crown Court for a preliminary hearing regarding a bottle attack incident at a nightclub. The 36-year-old performer, known for his hits like “Run It” and “With You,” expressed only the confirmation of his name during the brief court session presided over by Judge Tony Baumgartner.
Brown faces charges including assault occasioning actual bodily harm stemming from an alleged unprovoked attack on a former friend, Abraham Diaw, at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair in February 2023. He not only denies this allegation but also contends he did not possess an offensive weapon—a bottle—at the venue, nor did he attempt to cause grievous bodily harm during the incident associated with the Dirty Martini club night.
Dressed in a stylish white jacket over a black shirt and grey trousers, Brown was escorted by security as he entered the courtroom. Inside, he greeted his co-defendant, vocal coach Omololu Akinlolu, both of whom have pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
During the hearing, the legal teams provided updates on their trial preparations, which lasted approximately eight minutes before reconfirming bail conditions. Brown, who is also a two-time Grammy winner, was granted bail last year after a £5 million security payment, which allowed him to continue his scheduled tour, with the stipulation of surrendering his passport upon entering each country.
A dozen supporters attended the hearing to show solidarity, prompting Brown to wave to them as he departed. His legal troubles began after his arrest at Manchester’s Lowry Hotel on May 15 of the previous year, following a police investigation.
Looking ahead, both defendants are set to return to court for a pre-trial hearing in April, with the trial scheduled to commence in October. Despite the challenges before him, Brown continues to have the support of fans and remains focused on his legal proceedings.
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