CINCINNATI, Ohio — A Hamilton County judge has set the bond for a fourth suspect connected to a violent incident that occurred in downtown Cincinnati, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread attention. Dominique Kittle is facing a $150,000 bond after being charged with assault related to the brawl that took place on Fourth and Elm streets in July.
The incident has led to charges against six individuals for felonious assault and aggravated rioting, according to Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge. Initially, only five suspects were identified, but as the investigation progressed, a sixth emerged, prompting authorities to intensify their search for two remaining suspects who are still at large.
In a related statement, Cincinnati’s mayor highlighted the racial dynamics surrounding the incident, urging the community to remain united amid heightened tensions. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is now involved, investigating the brawl for potential civil rights violations, underlining the serious implications of the incident.
Witness accounts suggest that the altercation escalated after several minutes of tension. An anonymous observer noted that the fight began just moments after an individual, reportedly intoxicated, returned with a group that made racially charged remarks. Chief Theetge indicated that alcohol likely played a significant role in the chaos.
Despite having eleven officers in the Central Business District at the time, only one person called 911. The chief emphasized the critical nature of timely reporting, stating that prompt notification would have led to an immediate police response aimed at preserving public safety.
Among those arrested are Montianez Merriweather and Jermaine Matthews, who are alleged to have instigated the attack. Their defense attorneys claim that they acted in self-defense after being confronted first, complicating the narrative of events that transpired during the altercation.
Footage reportedly shows Matthews violently assaulting a victim, including punching and stomping, while also dragging an unconscious individual into the street. A third suspect, DeKyra Vernon, has also been charged in connection with the brawl.
In light of safety concerns in the area, Mayor Pureval announced that state troopers would join local law enforcement in traffic enforcement efforts. As the investigation unfolds, he hinted that additional arrests and charges may follow. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040, hoping to gather further insights into the case.