Chris Brown pleads not guilty

Looking subdued, R&B star Chris Brown pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles court on Monday to charges related to an alleged attack on his girlfriend, popular pop singer Rihanna. Brown, 19, entered his pleas during the arraignment in Los Angeles Superior Court. The formal charges states that Brown had assaulted Rihanna “by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury” and threatening to commit a crime “which would result in death and great bodily injury.” He could face up to four years in prison if convicted. After hearing the charges, Brown responded with a hushed “not guilty, your honor”.

Judge Patricia Schnegg had set the date to April 29th for Brown’s status hearing.

Los Angeles prosecutors say that Brown attacked Rihanna, 21, during a roadside dispute in his rented Lamborghini last February. A photo of Rihanna’s smashed and battered face was leaked onto the Internet and sparked outrage among her fans. Brown later issued a public statement saying he was “sorry and saddened” about the incident and was seeking counselling.