LOS ANGELES — R&B star Chris Brown pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles courtroom Monday to assaulting his girlfriend, singer Rihanna.
The 19-year-old Brown is charged with two with two felonies — assault and making criminal threats. Shortly after the hearing, Rihanna's attorney reiterated that the "Umbrella" singer would testify if required, but hopes a plea deal can be reached in the case.
"She would be pleased if this was over quickly," attorney Donald Etra told The Associated Press.
Brown was charged 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, 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.
The 21-year-old Rihanna did not attend Monday's hearing. She is currently spending time in Barbados with her family.
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