A UK judge has granted singer Chris Brown permission to return to the United States as he awaits trial for an alleged 2023 bottle attack at a London nightclub.
The ruling, which alters the American artist’s bail conditions, means the singer can leave the UK. However, he must adhere to strict financial and legal obligations, according to RTE.
THE CHRIS BROWN CASE
At Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday, Judge Tony Baumgartner approved the application. It allowed Chris Brown and his co-defendant, US national Omololu Akinlolu, to go back to the US.
The judge explicitly warned both men that they must return to the United Kingdom for all future court dates.
A failure to appear could result in the singer forfeiting a substantial security fee of R115 million (£5 million). This is the financial guarantee he previously paid to the court, according to the Daily Mail.
CHRIS BROWN’S BAIL CONDITIONS
The prosecution, led by Heidi Stonecliffe KC, emphasised that the bail conditions for Chris Brown remain “very stringent” and “numerous”. This is despite the amendment allowing for international travel.
Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to all charges relating to an incident at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair on 19 February 2023.
THE CHARGES
The charges include assault occasioning actual bodily harm to music producer Abraham Diaw, possessing an offensive weapon (a bottle), and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm.
His co-defendant has also denied the assault charge, according to Sky News.
This latest development means Chris Brown will continue his international tour schedule while preparing for his legal battle.
THE TRIAL IS SET
His previous bail conditions had already permitted him to tour, but confined him to a specific UK address. It also barred him from contacting the alleged victim or applying for new travel documents.
The case against Chris Brown continues, with both defendants scheduled to next appear at Southwark Crown Court on 28 January for a case management hearing. Their trial is set for October 2026.