CINCINNATI — A man charged in connection with a violent attack in downtown Cincinnati appeared in court Thursday following the filing of additional charges against him. Jermaine Matthews, 39, from East Price Hill, is accused of playing a significant role in orchestrating the assault that left multiple victims injured.
Matthews surrendered to authorities on Tuesday, facing one count each of aggravated riot and assault. During his arraignment on Wednesday, his bail was set at $100,000. In a subsequent court appearance, he received three new charges: two counts of felonious assault and one count of misdemeanor assault.
According to a newly filed criminal complaint, Matthews can be seen on surveillance footage actively participating in the brutal assault by punching and stomping on a victim. The complaint further alleges that he dragged an unconscious individual into the street and assaulted another victim as well—documenting a pattern of violence that has alarmed community members.
Two additional suspects have also been arrested in connection with the same attack. Montianez Merriweather, 34, from South Cumminsville, faces a $500,000 bond and charges of felonious assault, assault, and aggravated rioting. DeKyra Vernon, 24, from Evanston, is charged similarly, with a bond set at $200,000. During initial hearings, defense attorneys for both Merriweather and Matthews contended that their clients were provoked first by another individual involved in the confrontation.
Cincinnati police have indicated that these arrests are part of a coordinated effort to address public safety in the aftermath of the attack, which was widely circulated on social media. In response to the violence, local law enforcement emphasized their commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable and encouraged community cooperation, noting that tips from the public have been crucial to the investigation.
The Hamilton County Grand Jury is scheduled to consider the cases for potential indictment on August 8. Additionally, the FBI has commenced an inquiry to evaluate whether any civil rights violations occurred during the altercation.
Residents with any information related to the incident are urged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040. Police are continuing to pursue leads in order to ensure that all individuals involved face justice.