Cincinnati Beatdown Suspect Faces Federal Charges

A man arrested in connection with a violent incident in downtown Cincinnati on July 26 has been re-arrested on federal charges. Jermaine Matthews, 39, appeared before a federal judge on Wednesday after being taken into custody on August 25. He’s accused of conspiring to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl and running a drug trafficking operation.

The prosecutor, Anthony Springer, argued that Matthews should stay in custody, presenting photos of the alleged assault on 45-year-old Alex Chichelbinski during the July attack.

Matthews’ attorney, Kara Blackney, contended that he had little involvement in the community’s violent behavior, noting that some individuals involved include college athletes. Matthews has previously posted bonds totaling $270,000 for various charges, including multiple felonies and assaults.

Blackney claimed that Matthews did not flee after securing the bond. Ultimately, a federal judge permitted his release on bond, but the prosecution quickly appealed this decision. As of Friday, Matthews remained in custody at the Butler County Jail.

The viral nature of the beats has evidently stirred significant public anger, with footage showing several suspects attacking two white victims. One of the victims, Chichelbinski, now faces a disorderly conduct charge for allegedly hitting someone during the brawl. His legal team argues that his actions came only after he had already suffered numerous blows, claiming he endured 28 hits during the attack.

The second victim, Holly, has reported severe brain injury and is uncertain about her recovery. Following the incident, five others have also been charged with various offenses related to the attacks, including robbery.