New Galpal Says Chris Brown's a 'Gentleman'

(NEWSER) - Boyish pop star Chris Brown pleaded not guilty in a Los Angeles court today to pummeling his girlfriend Rihanna, People reports. Solemn and dressed in black, Brown murmured "not guilty" on two felony counts—making criminal threats and assault—while his mother Joyce Hawkins sat in the front row. The judge told Brown to return on April 29 for his next hearing. More»

(NEWSER) - Singer Chris Brown is being charged with two felonies in the beating of girlfriend Rihanna, Los Angeles authorities announced today. Brown, 19, is expected to appear in court this afternoon to enter a plea in the Feb. 8 incident, People reports, in which he faces counts of assault and making criminal threats against the singer, 21. More»

Statement comes on her 21st birthday

(NEWSER) - Rihanna has spoken publicly for the first time since her assault, assuring fans in a statement that "she remains strong, is doing well, and deeply appreciates the outpouring of support," reports People. Her rep said the singer won't comment on the assault at the police's request. Rihanna turned 21 yesterday and was photographed back in Los Angeles—on the same day a police photo of her bruised face surfaced in the media. More»

Pic resembles confidential domestic violence records

(NEWSER) - The photo of Rihanna’s bruised face posted on TMZ.com may be police evidence, the Los Angeles Times reports. The LAPD, which is investigating Chris Brown’s alleged beating of the pop singer, said the photo resembles those taken during official domestic violence investigations, which are strictly confidential. "A violation of this type is considered serious misconduct, with penalties up to and including termination," the department said in a statement. More»

Rihanna cooperating with police investigation, friends say

(NEWSER) - Rihanna suffered facial bruises, a bloody nose, split lip and bite marks on her arm and hand in her explosive confrontation with boyfriend Chris Brown, TMZ is reporting. One source called the injuries "horrific." Brown has been charged with assault following his arrest after the fight Saturday on a Los Angeles street. Rihanna is cooperating with police in the continuing investigation, friends told TMZ. More»