US R&B singer Chris Brown has made a brief appearance at a London court for a preliminary hearing ahead of his trial concerning an alleged bottle attack at an exclusive Mayfair nightclub. The 36-year-old artist, known for Grammy-winning hits, attended Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday, speaking only to confirm his identity before Judge Tony Baumgartner.
Court Proceedings and Charges
During the eight-minute hearing, lawyers provided updates on trial preparations, and bail conditions were reconfirmed for Brown. The singer has previously entered not guilty pleas to multiple charges stemming from an incident at the Tape private members' club in February 2023.
Specific Allegations
Prosecutors allege that Brown committed an unprovoked attack on former friend Abraham Diaw, leading to charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Additionally, he faces accusations of possessing an offensive weapon—a bottle—in a public place and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm during the venue's Dirty Martini club night.
Co-Defendant and Court Appearance
Brown was accompanied in the dock by co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, a 39-year-old vocal coach who has also denied a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The pair shook hands during the proceedings, with Brown dressed in a white jacket, black shirt, and grey trousers, flanked by security personnel.
Bail Conditions and Support
The two-time Grammy winner was granted bail last year under strict conditions, including a £5 million security fee paid to the court. His bail agreement permits continued touring, provided he surrenders his passport upon arrival in each country. Approximately a dozen supporters observed the hearing from the public gallery, with Brown waving to them as he departed the courtroom.
Background and Future Hearings
Brown was arrested in May last year at Manchester's Lowry Hotel by Metropolitan Police detectives. Both defendants are scheduled to return to court for a further pre-trial hearing in April, with the full trial expected to commence in October.
