Chris Brown Charged with Grievous Bodily Harm Following London Nightclub Incident
LONDON, 16 May 2025 — US singer Chris Brown has been charged with grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with an alleged assault that took place at a central London nightclub on 19 February 2023, the Metropolitan Police has confirmed.
The 36-year-old performer was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday morning. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
In a statement, Adele Kelly, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London North, said:
“We have authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Chris Brown with one count of grievous bodily harm, contrary to section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and he has the right to a fair trial.”
The charge under Section 18 of the 1861 Act is among the most serious assault-related offences under UK law and typically involves intentional and serious physical harm. It carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted.
According to reports by The Sun, Brown flew into Manchester Airport on Wednesday afternoon aboard a private jet. The arrest comes while he is currently on a UK tour, with scheduled performances across the country in June and July. It is unclear whether his upcoming shows will be affected by the legal proceedings.
The Metropolitan Police have not released specific details about the alleged victim or the circumstances surrounding the incident. However, grievous bodily harm with intent generally involves significant injury, such as broken bones, permanent scarring, or other lasting harm.
This is not the first time Chris Brown has faced legal trouble. In 2009, he was convicted of assaulting pop singer Rihanna, an incident that led to a felony conviction and years of legal and professional consequences.
The current case is being closely watched due to both Brown’s high profile and the severity of the charge. The CPS and police have reiterated the need to allow due process to take place and reminded the public that criminal proceedings are now active, meaning commentary on the case should not interfere with the defendant’s right to a fair trial.
Further updates are expected following Friday’s court appearance.