Chris Brown is avoiding prison, for now. The "Under the Influence" singer received a suspended sentence stemming from a 2023 incident in which he attacked a man in a London nightclub.
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The Judge Said Chris Brown Is Not Entitled to "Special Treatment"
As PEOPLE reported, Brown was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for 12 months. His co-defendant, 40-year-old rapper HoodyBaby, whose real name is Omololu Akinlolu, was sentenced to four months in prison, also suspended for 12 months. A news release said the sentence was handed down at London's Southwark Crown Court on Monday, Oct. 26.
"I take account of your employment and long-established career in music. Your fame, commercial success, and professional standing do not entitle you to special treatment. The law applies equally to everyone," said Judge Tony Baumgartner.
Back in July, the 37-year-old Brown pleaded guilty to attacking Abraham Diaw. On Feb. 19, 2023, Brown hit the music producer and former friend with a tequila bottle at a Mayfair nightclub. Akinlolu also pleaded guilty.
Assault and grievous bodily harm charges against both Brown and Akinlolu were dropped. A charge of possession of an offensive weapon charge against Brown was also dropped.
Police Called the Attack "Inexcusable"
Video footage showed Brown attacking Diaw with a bottle of Don Julio 1942, then Akinlolu striking the producer in the back of the head. Diaw was chased, shoved to the floor, and kicked before being taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a head injury and a minor knee injury.
"The repeated use of a glass bottle in that way, especially aimed at the head, was plainly dangerous. It carried the risk of delivering a more serious injury than was ultimately sustained," Judge Baumgartner told the musicians.
Police said they attempted to interview Brown and Akinlolu. Police then arrested Brown in Salford in 2025 after a U.K. tour date. He was released on a £5 million bail several days later. Brown was allowed to continue on the European leg of his tour if he surrendered his passport on arrival in each country.
Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah called the attack "inexcusable."
She added, "It has taken several years to secure this result for the victim and the wider public, and I am grateful to the detectives who worked on this lengthy investigation. Violence will not be accepted on the streets of London. Regardless of an individual's profile or status, we will pursue those responsible and work tirelessly to bring them before the courts."
