July 12, 2025
American R&B star Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to two additional charges related to an alleged bottle attack at a central London nightclub in February 2023. Appearing before Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, July 11, Brown denied assaulting music producer Abraham Diaw and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.
The fresh charges come on top of a prior accusation of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, to which Brown had already entered a not guilty plea in June.
The Incident
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on the night of February 19, 2023, at Tape nightclub in Mayfair, London. Prosecutors allege that Brown, during a heated moment, struck Diaw over the head with a bottle and continued the assault as the victim lay on the ground. The alleged attack left Diaw with serious injuries.
Video surveillance footage reportedly captured parts of the assault, which prosecutors claim was unprovoked. The case has drawn significant public and media attention due to Brown’s celebrity status and the violent nature of the allegations.
Legal Proceedings
Brown was arrested in Manchester on May 15, 2025, during his UK tour and was initially held in custody. He was later granted bail on May 21, after posting a substantial £5 million security and agreeing to strict conditions, including surrendering his passport, remaining in the UK, and avoiding any contact with the complainant.
On June 20, he pleaded not guilty to the first charge of attempted grievous bodily harm. The two new charges—assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon—were added in July, prompting Thursday’s court appearance.
The court has now scheduled Brown’s trial to begin on October 26, 2026. It is expected to last between five and seven days.
Public Reaction
A crowd of supporters, including fans and members of Brown’s entourage, were present in the courtroom. Brown, known for his high-profile legal troubles in the past, has not issued any public statement regarding the charges. His legal team has maintained his innocence.
Despite the ongoing legal case, Brown is reportedly continuing with scheduled performances under the terms of his bail, which permit him to work under supervision.
What’s Next?
As the trial date looms more than a year away, Brown remains under court-imposed restrictions. The extended pre-trial timeline means the singer will continue to operate under close legal scrutiny as he navigates both his music career and the UK justice system.
The case adds to the singer’s long history of legal issues, and depending on the outcome, could have serious implications for his freedom, career, and international mobility.
Trial Date: October 26, 2026
Location: Southwark Crown Court, London
Charges:
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Attempted grievous bodily harm with intent
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Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
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Possession of an offensive weapon (a bottle)
For continued updates on the case as it develops, stay tuned.
