Chris Brown Charged with Two Felonies in Alleged Rihanna Assault
LOS ANGELES — Chris Brown was charged with two felonies Thursday stemming from last month's alleged assault of his girlfriend, fellow R&B star Rihanna, The Associated Press reports.
Brown, 19, is expected to be arraigned Thursday afternoon on charges of assault and making criminal threats, AP said.
If convicted, Brown faces anywhere from probation to a maximum four years and eight months in state prison, DA spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons said.
Thursday was the first time authorities have released the name of the victim, identified as "Robyn F." The "Umbrella" singer's real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty.
The formal charges come nearly a month after the couple got into a fight while driving in the early morning hours of Feb. 8. According to a detective's affidavit obtained by AP, the argument began after Rihanna found a text message from another woman on Brown's cell phone.
As the fight ensued, Brown pulled the car over and attempted to push Rihanna out of the vehicle, but she was wearing a seatbelt at the time. He then pushed the singer's head against the car window and punched her before continuing to drive and hit her. Brown also alleged bit Rihanna on the ear, the affidavit said.
At one point, Rihanna made a fake phone call to her assistant, asking her to have the police waiting once she arrived. The phony message reportedly led to Brown making an alleged threat to kill Rihanna.
Brown turned himself into authorities later that evening. He was arrested and booked on suspicion of making criminal threats and later released on $50,000 bail.
The incident took place on the day of the Grammy Awards, in which both stars were scheduled to perform. Both singers cancelled their appearances.
Brown has only spoken out once publicly since the incident, releasing a statement that expressed his remorse.
"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," said the "Kiss Kiss" singer. "I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person."
The couple has reportedly reconciled in the last week, having spent time together last weekend at the Star Island mansion of Sean "Diddy" Combs.
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