Chris Brown Allowed US Return On Bail Ahead London Assault Trial

Chris Brown has been granted permission by a UK court to return to the United States on bail while awaiting trial for an alleged attack on music producer Abraham Diaw at a London nightclub in February 2023. The singer, along with co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, faces charges including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon (a tequila bottle), and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, all of which they deny. Judge Tony Baumgartner approved a variation of Brown's bail conditions, emphasizing stringent terms such as a £5 million security payment, surrender of his passport, and restrictions on contacting the alleged victim or co-defendant. Both defendants must return to the UK for court appearances, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for January 28 and a week-long trial set for October 26 next year. Prosecutors highlighted the unusual circumstances surrounding the bail variation and urged these conditions not be misconstrued as allowing Brown unfettered return to the US. Brown's previous bail conditions also included restrictions on his residence and travel, which continue to apply along with the new provisions.