Fourth Suspect Faces Charges Amid Mental Health Claims
Cincinnati police arrested Dominique Kittle, 37, the fourth suspect in a violent downtown brawl that sparked national outrage. The incident, occurring near Fourth and Elm streets on July 26, went viral on social media, prompting intense public scrutiny. Kittle faces charges of felonious assault and aggravated riot, with his bond set at $150,000 at the Hamilton County Justice Center. Meanwhile, his attorney, Caleb Baum, argues that Kittle’s actions were influenced by his mental health condition.
Mental Health Defense Raised in Court
During Kittle’s arraignment on August 2, Baum told Judge Gwen Bender that Kittle suffers from paranoid schizophrenia. Consequently, Baum claimed Kittle was “scared” and “impressionable” during the brawl, suggesting his client’s mental state contributed to his involvement. Moreover, Baum noted that others, including a man who allegedly threw the first punch and another using racial slurs, faced no charges. However, Judge Bender interrupted, accusing Baum of “grandstanding” and refocusing the hearing on legal arguments.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The brawl, which left two victims injured, has led to four arrests, including Montianez Merriweather, Jermaine Matthews, and Dekyra Vernon. Additionally, Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge stated two more suspects remain at large. In response, Mayor Aftab Pureval announced increased police patrols to address rising crime concerns. Furthermore, the FBI is investigating, and new video evidence showing racial slurs has intensified debates about the incident’s motives. As a result, the case continues to highlight tensions over public safety and justice in Cincinnati.
