CINCINNATI — Authorities have apprehended a seventh individual implicated in a downtown Cincinnati robbery that police describe as a “violent attack.” Gregory Wright, 32, was arrested on Monday afternoon and is now facing charges of aggravated riot and aggravated robbery, according to Hamilton County court records.
Wright’s arrest follows the indictments of six other suspects linked to the incident, which occurred in the early hours of July 26. Initial reports indicate that Wright was seen removing a gold chain from a victim while others battered the individual on the ground. Central Business District Commander Adam Hennie stated that Wright subsequently documented the scene on his phone.
The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Crime Stoppers had previously issued a public appeal for information regarding Wright, identifying him as a suspect. His booking record shows he entered the Hamilton County Justice Center around 4:30 p.m. on Monday.
A grand jury recently brought multiple charges against the earlier six suspects, each facing serious allegations including three counts of felonious assault and two counts of aggravated riot. If convicted, they could face nearly 30 years in prison. The suspects, named in the indictments, include Aisha Devaughn, 26; Dominique Kittle, 37; Jermaine Matthews, 39; Montianez Merriweather, 34; Patrick Rosemond, 38; and Dekyra Vernon, 24.
Court filings suggest that Matthews and Merriweather are believed to have premeditated the assault, with testimony citing their coordination of the attack. Most of the suspects are currently in custody, while Matthews is out on bond, monitored through an ankle device and under house arrest.
Footage of the downtown assault, which involved around 100 individuals and left six victims with serious injuries, has circulated widely on social media. Police Chief Teresa Theetge underscored that only one bystander called for emergency assistance during the chaos, prompting a broader discussion about public safety and community dynamics.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the FBI has also opened a review. The police chief has indicated that additional video footage may be released soon to provide further context to the assault. She noted the importance of preserving the integrity of the investigation while balancing public demand for information.
Legal experts, including veteran defense attorney Stew Mathews, maintain that the case may not be as straightforward as it seems. He acknowledged the gravity of the assault but emphasized the possibility of multiple perspectives and potential complexities in the narrative surrounding the events.
The situation has instigated significant conversations within the community about crime and safety, reflecting both a local and national discourse. Many residents are seeking accountability for those involved while also grappling with the implications of such public violence.