CINCINNATI (WXIX) – One of the three suspects arrested for the viral beating attack in downtown Cincinnati bonded out of jail after more charges were filed against him Thursday.
Hamilton County prosecutors allege Jermaine Matthews, 39, of East Price Hill, “coordinated” with another suspect what police say was a “violent attack,” and then ambushed and assaulted victims.
The July 26 incident at Fourth and Elm streets has sparked concerns over Downtown safety and demands from residents and some business leaders for the city to take action.
Matthews was one of the first three suspects arrested.
He turned himself in Tuesday night on one count each of aggravated riot and assault.
Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge Michael Peck set his bond at $100,000 during his arraignment Wednesday.
Matthews returned to court Thursday on two new counts of felonious assault and one for misdemeanor assault.
Judge Peck set new bonds that hiked the total amount to $270,000. If he is released, he must wear an ankle monitor and and will be on house arrest.
A Hamilton County grand jury will consider his case for indictment on Aug. 8.
Police said Matthews is seen on video “punching and stomping on (a) victim with his hands and feet attempting to cause serious physical harm,” according to a criminal complaint.
He’s also accused of dragging another person who was unconscious into the middle of the street and punching and assaulting a victim.
The other two suspects charged so far are:
- Montianez Merriweather, 34, of South Cumminsville. His bond was set at $500,000 and he remains jailed. He is charged with felonious assault, assault and aggravated rioting.
- DeKyra Vernon, 24, of Evanston. Her bond was set at $200,000 on charges of felonious assault, assault and aggravated rioting.
During their initial arraignments Wednesday, police said Merriweather and Matthews coordinated the brawl, planned “an ambush” or purposely set it up.
Both of their defense attorneys have objected and insist they were struck first by the man they are accused of beating.
The cases all go to the grand jury for indictment on Aug. 8.
Two other suspects who have been charged but not arrested remain at large.
In the meantime, the FBI is looking into the incident to determine whether there are civil rights violations.
Anyone with more information about the violent attack is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040.
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