CINCINNATI — A Hamilton County grand jury is set to review potential indictments against four of six individuals linked to a downtown incident described by local law enforcement as a “violent attack.” The grand jury will convene on Friday to examine the cases against these suspects, who face multiple charges.
Those under consideration include Dominique Kittle, 37; Jermaine Matthews, 39; Montianez Merriweather, 34; and Dekyra Vernon, 24. Each is facing serious accusations that range from felonious assault to aggravated riot. Court records indicate Kittle, Merriweather, and Vernon remain incarcerated, while Matthews has recently been released under strict house arrest, monitored by an ankle device.
The police have suggested premeditation in the attack, with a detective stating in court that Matthews and Merriweather appeared to orchestrate the assault. However, the defendants’ attorneys deny these claims, arguing their clients were, in fact, victims in the chaotic scenario.
In addition to these suspects, Patrick Rosemond, 38, was arrested in Atlanta and faces charges similar to those of the others. It remains uncertain when he will be extradited to Ohio for his court proceedings. Another suspect, Aisha Devaughn, 26, was apprehended earlier this week and is scheduled to appear in front of the grand jury next week for her roles in the alleged incident.
On July 26, the downtown area saw around 100 individuals involved in a brutal confrontation, leaving six victims—five men and one woman—suffering from severe injuries. Local police chief Teresa Theetge described the violence as “unimaginable,” prompting significant concern about public safety in the city.
The attack has sparked widespread discussions about crime and safety in Cincinnati, with videos from the event circulating widely on social media, igniting a national debate. Police are now seeking the public’s assistance to identify a seventh individual implicated in the violence, described as a man who allegedly robbed a victim during the assault. Witnesses are being urged to come forward with any information.
Amidst the outcry, Theetge has stressed that social media clips of the incident do not capture the full picture, indicating that additional evidence, including body camera footage from officers, is forthcoming. This material may provide greater insight into the chaotic events of that night.
As investigations continue, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is also examining the incident for potential civil rights violations, adding another layer of scrutiny to the already complex situation in downtown Cincinnati. The unfolding events reflect broader societal issues related to crime and community safety, prompting reactions from both local and national leaders.