By Emmanuel Kwada
American R&B singer Chris Brown was released on £5 million ($6.7 million) bail by a British judge on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, following his arrest in connection with an alleged assault at a London nightclub in 2023. The decision, made at Southwark Crown Court, allows the Grammy-winning artist to proceed with his upcoming international tour while facing charges of grievous bodily harm with intent.
Brown, 36, was arrested on May 15, 2025, at the Lowry Hotel in Salford, Manchester, after arriving in the UK by private jet.
The charges stem from an alleged incident on February 19, 2023, at the Tape nightclub in London’s Mayfair district, where Brown is accused of attacking music producer Abe Diaw with a tequila bottle, causing severe injuries.
Prosecutors described the assault as “unprovoked,” alleging Brown struck Diaw multiple times with the bottle before punching and kicking him in an attack captured on surveillance footage. Diaw reportedly sustained lacerations to his head and torn ligaments in his leg, requiring ongoing medical treatment.
Judge Tony Baumgartner granted Brown’s release on bail, stipulating a £5 million security fee to ensure his return to court. Additional conditions include surrendering his passport when not traveling for his tour, residing at a court-approved address, avoiding contact with Diaw, and not visiting the Tape nightclub.
Brown’s co-defendant, American musician Omololu Akinlolu, 38, who performs as HoodyBaby, also faces charges related to the incident. Both are scheduled to appear in court on June 20, 2025, with Brown yet to enter a plea.
Additional conditions include surrendering his passport when not traveling for his tour, residing at a court-approved address, avoiding contact with Diaw, and not visiting the Tape nightclub
The bail decision revives Brown’s “Breezy Bowl XX” world tour, set to begin on June 8 in Amsterdam, with UK performances scheduled in Manchester, Cardiff, and London starting June 15. Failure to comply with bail conditions or return for his court appearance could result in the forfeiture of the £5 million bond.
Brown, known for hits like “Run It,” “Kiss Kiss,” and “Under the Influence,” has faced multiple legal issues in the past, including a 2009 felony assault conviction involving his then-girlfriend Rihanna. The singer’s representatives have not yet commented on the current case.
The court’s ruling has sparked mixed reactions. Some, including posts on X, have criticized the decision as evidence of wealth-based privilege, while others note the strict bail conditions ensure accountability.
The case continues to draw significant public attention as Brown prepares for his tour and upcoming court proceedings.
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