LOS ANGELES, (Reuters) – Disgraced R&B star Chris Brown was sentenced to five years’ probation and 180 days of community labour yesterday for beating up his then-girlfriend, pop singer Rihanna.
The sentencing by a Los Angeles judge followed a plea deal. Brown, 20, pleaded guilty to assault on June 22. As part of his sentence, he must also complete a one-year domestic violence counseling program.
He assaulted Rihanna during an argument that began in the small hours of Feb. 8, while the couple were in a rented Lamborghini. The incident left the 21-year-old starlet bloodied and bruised, and sparked an outcry from groups that offer support and services to victims of domestic abuse.
Brown formally apologized last month, calling the incident “unacceptable, 100 percent,” and asking for forgiveness.
He was originally supposed to be sentenced earlier this month, but Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Schnegg gave court officials more time to ensure that Brown’s punishment would involve physical work.
