London – American singer Chris Brown has been handed an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, over an attack on music producer Abraham “Abe” Diaw at a London nightclub in February 2023.
Brown, 37, was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on October 26, 2026, after admitting affray in connection with the incident at Tape, a private members’ club in Mayfair.
His co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, also known as Hoody Baby, was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for 12 months. Both men were also ordered to pay £1,500 in costs.
The suspended sentences mean neither man will have to serve the prison term immediately, provided they comply with the conditions of their sentences and do not commit further offences during the suspension period.
Prosecutors told the court that Brown struck Diaw twice on the head with a tequila bottle during the incident. Akinlolu then punched the producer, who was also kicked while lying on the floor.
The attack took place in a crowded nightclub, with CCTV footage capturing the brief but violent confrontation. Diaw suffered injuries to his head and knee and received hospital treatment.
Brown pleaded guilty to affray in July 2026. More serious charges, including assault, attempting to cause grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon, were dropped as part of the agreement surrounding the guilty pleas.
During sentencing, Judge Tony Baumgartner described the use of a glass bottle to strike someone on the head as plainly dangerous. He also noted the intensity of the violence and the risks posed by such an attack in a crowded entertainment venue.
However, the judge considered several factors in deciding the sentences, including the defendants’ early guilty pleas, Brown’s compliance with bail conditions and an assessment indicating a low risk of reoffending.
The impact that immediate imprisonment would have on Brown’s children was also taken into account. The judge nevertheless made clear that Brown’s fame and commercial success did not entitle him to more favourable treatment before the law.
The case dates back to February 2023 but attracted renewed attention in May 2025, when Brown was arrested on his return to the United Kingdom. He was subsequently released on substantial bail as the legal proceedings continued.
The sentencing brings the case over the nightclub incident to a significant stage, although the suspended terms mean the two men will not immediately enter prison.
