The 11-D hearing for Warren Brown, also known as Houston rapper Cartel Bo, is underway in Judge Kelli Johnson’s court.
Brown is charged with aggravated kidnapping, continuous family violence and assault causing bodily injury. Judge Johnson is hearing arguments before deciding whether Brown should be denied bail.
The hearing began with testimony from an investigator with the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. The court heard that the woman ran from Brown’s home naked and handcuffed while banging on neighbors’ doors seeking help. She reportedly had no phone, keys or belongings with her.
Photographs presented in court reportedly showed bruising on her body and marks around her ankles. Testimony also addressed allegations that she was held inside a closet without food. A mattress inside the closet was reportedly soaked in urine, rotten food was found in the area and a door appeared to have been forced open. The woman’s belongings were not seen inside the home, although her medication was reportedly found in a bedroom.
A private investigator for the defense later testified that the woman said she drove herself to Brown’s home and initially went there to discuss custody of their children. She reportedly described sexual activity involving restraints as consensual and said she remained at the residence for hours of her own free will.
According to the private investigator, the woman said she had been drinking, was “in and out” and could not remember everything that happened. She reportedly gave three varying accounts, repeatedly refused a rape kit and said she felt pressured to go to the hospital.
The woman allegedly told the private investigator that Brown never assaulted or kidnapped her and that she did not want to move forward with the case. The investigator said she observed no injuries at approximately 2 p.m. and described the woman’s demeanor as normal.
The defense also discussed a separate incident in Dallas a few days earlier in which the woman claimed an unknown man slapped her. Previous allegations involving Brown, including a 2018 case, were raised, with the defense noting that most had been dismissed.
The court also heard that the woman was financially dependent on Brown. Prosecutors alleged that Brown contacted her through someone else’s phone number and asked her to sign an affidavit of non-prosecution. Videos in which Brown allegedly discussed cutting off his ankle monitor and fleeing to Miami were also raised.
Referring to the woman’s financial dependence and reluctance to proceed with the case and the other cases prior, the prosecutor argued, “That’s the hold he has over her.”
The 911 call was reportedly made by Brown’s aunt, who has custody of Brown and the alleged victim’s children.
Judge Johnson has not yet announced her decision regarding Brown’s bail. She will be revealing all evidence and making a decision. Stay tuned.
