Cincinnati Assault Case Updates
Cincinnati – On Thursday morning, five of the seven individuals charged in connection with a viral assault faced a courtroom appearance. This session saw additional charges added, adding to the tension surrounding the case.
The first person to appear was Montanes Merriweather, who was recently hit with a federal charge for illegally possessing a firearm, given his prior felony conviction.
Prosecutor Kip Guinang disclosed that there are new video angles captured by nearby city cameras, which show different perspectives of the incident but haven’t been made public yet. He also noted that reports of racial slurs were directed toward one of the assailants shortly after the attack commenced.
The judge has set Merriweather’s bond at $500,000, maintaining the amount from previous hearings.
Dekyra Vernon’s bond was notably reduced from $200,000 to $25,000, which elicited cheers from those in attendance. She was instructed to steer clear of the downtown region.
Vernon’s attorney, Clyde Bennett, contended that the case against her was exacerbated by racial and political sentiments but maintained that the incident was merely a result of intoxicated altercations.
Jermaine Matthews, who had initially posted bond after the altercation, is still allowed to continue working. Guinang argued that Matthews served as the instigator of the violence, calling him the “leader of the assault.” In defense, Matthews’ lawyer claimed his client was provoked by others involved.
The latest developments saw Dominique Kittle ordered to remain in custody pending a mental health evaluation, while his bond remains unchanged. His lawyer indicated that Kittle suffers from delusional schizophrenia and referred to insanity defenses from prior charges. Yet, Guinan expressed concerns, labeling Kittle as a “significant danger to public safety.”
Aisha Devarn’s bond was reduced from $300,000 to $25,000, after his lawyer cited a lack of prior felonies, suggesting a less threatening profile.
Cincinnati residents seem increasingly anxious about the implications of these assaults, questioning the future of their community.
Meanwhile, Matthews, Merriweather, Vernon, Devarn, Rosemond, and Kittle are all facing multiple charges, including felony assault and aggravated riot. The seventh suspect, Gregory Wright, was arrested earlier this week, facing similar charges. All defendants have pleaded not guilty.
