Chris Brown Seeks to Block Rihanna Assault Mention in Trial

Chris Brown is making a legal request to keep his past out of his current civil trial. His legal team is asking the judge to prohibit any mention of his 2009 assault case involving Rihanna during the upcoming trial concerning a dog attack incident.

Blocking Past Assault Allegations

The singer is currently facing a civil lawsuit filed by his former housekeeper, Maria Avila. She alleges she was severely attacked by his dog at his Tarzana home in 2020 and claims Brown should be held responsible for failing to provide a safe working environment. As this case heads to trial, Brown’s attorneys argue that referencing the Rihanna assault is irrelevant and could unfairly prejudice the jury.

In a motion reviewed by WBLS, Brown’s lawyers described any mention of the 2009 incident as “improper, irrelevant, and unduly prejudicial.” They contend that the case, which occurred nearly 17 years ago, has no bearing on the current civil trial focused on Brown’s alleged liability for the dog attack. The defense wants the jury to concentrate solely on the facts of this specific incident.

Plaintiff’s Argument for Admissibility

However, Maria Avila and her legal team disagree. They argue that Brown’s history, including the Rihanna assault for which he pleaded guilty and received probation, is crucial evidence. They believe it helps establish a pattern of conduct and impacts his credibility. Avila’s attorneys have called Brown’s request for a blanket ban “overbroad, premature, and legally incorrect.”

The plaintiff’s legal team suggests that if the defense attempts to portray Brown as non-violent or minimize the alleged trauma experienced by Avila, then evidence of his past acts might become admissible for impeachment or rebuttal purposes. This could allow the jury to consider his legal history when evaluating his responsibility for the dog attack.

Trial Scheduled Amidst Legal Debate

The judge’s decision on whether to allow mentions of the Rihanna assault case will significantly influence how the trial unfolds. If the judge sides with Avila, the jury could potentially consider Brown’s past legal issues when determining his liability for the dog attack. Despite previous delays, the trial is currently scheduled to commence on June 15th.