Chris Brown hires defense attorney to the stars

R&B singer and actor Chris Brown made headlines after he was involved in an alleged domestic battery incident late Saturday night, following a night out at Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy tribute party with girlfriend and pop superstar, Rihanna.

Brown turned himself in to the Los Angeles police department Sunday night and was booked for making criminal threats, a felony charge. He remains under investigation for felony domestic battery. Brown posted the $50,000 bail, and was released from custody late Sunday night.

On Monday, Brown hired attorney Mark J. Geragos to defend him. Geragos is no stranger to working with celebrity clients. He represented Winona Ryder when she was arrested for shoplifting in 2001, as well as Michael Jackson during his child molestation trial. Other clients have included Victor Willis of the Village People and Nate Dogg.

Geragos was the attorney for Gary Condit, the former congressman who had an affair with Chandra Levy before her disappearance. He also defended Scott Peterson who was ultimately convicted of the murder of his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson.

Though the victim’s name in Chris Brown’s case has not yet been officially released, the Los Angeles Times reports that sources have identified Brown’s alleged victim as Rihanna, whose real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty.

TMZ has reported she suffered two major contusions on her face and was bleeding.

The backlash of the incident has already begun. In light of his arrest, Wrigley has suspended an ad campaign featuring Brown as a spokesman for Doublemint gum. The company said they will wait until the situation is resolved before using any ads or marketing campaigns that include Brown.

Both Brown and Rihanna were scheduled to perform at the 51st Grammy Awards, but canceled their appearances at the last minute. Rihanna was nominated for three Grammys, and Brown was up for two awards, though neither won.

Both artists were nominated in the the best pop collaboration with vocals category. Rihanna was nominated for her performance with Maroon 5 on the song “If I Never See Your Face Again” and Brown was up for his work with Jordin Sparks on her track, “No Air.”

Best pop collaboration ultimately went to Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, who also took home record of the year and album of the year.

The current status of Brown’s romantic relationship with Rihanna has not been disclosed.

Rihanna has canceled her concert scheduled for Friday in Malaysia as well as her Feb. 20th party for her 21st birthday, reports E!.

Brown is due in court on March 5.

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