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Sunday 22/02/2026

Chris Brown Denies Charges in London Nightclub Assault Case

Chris Brown in a blue suit denies charges in London
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm in a London nightclub incident.
  • The alleged assault involved a tequila bottle and occurred at the Tape club in Mayfair on 19 February 2023.
  • Brown's co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, also entered a not guilty plea to the same charge.
  • A trial is scheduled for 26 October 2026, with further court proceedings set for 11 July.
  • Brown was released on conditional bail after paying a £5m security fee, allowing him to continue his Breezy Bowl XX tour.

US singer Chris Brown has entered a not guilty plea to charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm following an alleged bottle attack at a London nightclub. The incident, which prosecutors have described as "unprovoked," took place at the Tape club in Mayfair on 19 February 2023. Brown, 36, is accused of using a tequila bottle as an offensive weapon against music producer Abraham Diaw.

Court Proceedings and Charges

During a plea and trial preparation hearing at Southwark Crown Court, Brown, dressed in an ocean blue suit, confirmed his identity before denying the charge of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm. His co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, also known as HoodyBaby, similarly pleaded not guilty. Both men face additional charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, although pleas for these charges have been deferred until 11 July.

Legal Context and Bail Conditions

Brown was arrested at the Lowry hotel in Salford, Greater Manchester, after arriving in the UK for his Breezy Bowl XX tour. He was released on conditional bail after agreeing to a £5m security fee, which serves as a financial guarantee for his return to court. As part of his bail conditions, Brown must reside at a UK address and has surrendered his passport, though arrangements have been made to allow him to travel for his tour dates.

Public and Fan Reactions

The court appearance drew significant media attention, with photographers capturing Brown's arrival. Fans of the Grammy-winning artist filled the public gallery, showing their support during the proceedings. Despite the legal challenges, Brown continues to perform, recently thanking fans at a Manchester concert for their support and humorously referencing his time in custody.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the case progresses, the upcoming court date on 11 July will be crucial for determining the trajectory of the legal proceedings. If the charges are upheld, Brown could face significant legal consequences, impacting his career and public image. The trial scheduled for October 2026 will likely draw considerable media attention, given Brown's celebrity status and the serious nature of the charges. Legal experts suggest that the outcome could set a precedent for how high-profile cases involving international artists are handled in the UK.