Two people who pleaded guilty to their roles in the downtown melee last summer received their sentences on Tuesday.
Montianez Merriweather was sentenced to ten months in jail for felony aggravated riot and aggravated assault. He has been in jail for about ten months, awaiting a resolution to his case, and may be released shortly. After his release, he may face community control. The July incident in Cincinnati was characterized by violence rather than disturbance. “And violence in a crowded public place has consequences,” remarked Judge Virginia Tallent. She did, however, claim that his actions were less significant than those of the other parties involved. She also stated that Merriweather accepted responsibility for his conduct.
According to the assistant prosecutor, the victims believed the plea offer was reasonable.
Dekyra Vernon received two years probation and must perform 100 hours of community service. If Vernon breaches her probation, Judge Tallent said she will sentence her to six months in jail. The judge found Vernon to be the least guilty of the accused. The assistant prosecutor claimed she did not hit or kick anyone.
Vernon apologized. “I’d simply like to say that I’m sorry for the victims and that I’ve learned that my acts have repercussions. I accept full responsibility for the role I played.”
She added, “I’m not a violent offender. I’ve never gone to jail. This was very horrible for me. “I was terrified for ten months.”
The incident began around 3 a.m. last July outside a 4th Street tavern in downtown. Words were exchanged, and a brawl escalated into a melee that was broadcast around the country via social media.
Videos of the fight quickly spread on social media. Multiple Black people punched a white man, knocking him to the ground and viciously kicking him. Merriweather said he punched the guy twice. According to his lawyers, Merriweather walked away as the fighting worsened.
The footage also shows a woman named Holly being attacked and knocked to the ground.
Aisha Devaughn, Jermaine Matthews, and Gregory Wright have pleaded guilty and will be sentenced at a later date. Dominique Kittle was previously declared incapable to stand trial and is looking for new counsel. Patrick Rosemond’s case has also been postponed while he seeks new counsel.
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