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Bryshere Y. Gray, best known for his role as Hakeem Lyon on the hit TV series Empire, has been charged with misdemeanor assault and battery following a June 13 incident at a Homewood Suites hotel in Chesapeake, Virginia. The 31-year-old actor is accused of attacking his associate, Dustin “Chosen” Wilkins, during a dispute over an alleged unpaid bill.
According to court documents and eyewitness statements, the altercation began when Wilkins confronted Gray over finances, leading to a heated argument in the hotel parking lot. Wilkins claims that while he was recording the incident on his phone, Gray suddenly charged at him from behind a vehicle, delivering a forceful shoulder strike that nearly knocked him down. He alleges Gray then punched him with a closed fist before walking away. Wilkins filed a complaint as a private citizen, prompting local authorities to issue a warrant for Gray’s arrest.
Gray was taken into custody on June 15 and later released on bond. He is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on June 18. The charge, if proven, could result in fines or potential jail time. However, some close to the situation are calling for a more compassionate approach.
Speaking to the media, Wilkins expressed concern for Gray’s mental state, saying, “Bryshere is like my brother. He doesn’t need jail—he needs help. Something’s going on with his mental health.” He added that the incident appeared to stem from a deeper psychological issue rather than malicious intent.
This is not Gray’s first run-in with the law. In 2020, he was arrested in Arizona following a domestic violence incident involving his wife. he eventually pleaded guilty to felony aggravated assault and was sentenced to 10 days in jail and three years of probation. His probation was later revoked in 2022 due to reported violations, raising further questions about his personal struggles.
Gray’s latest legal troubles have reignited public concern about his well-being, with some urging the court to consider mental health evaluations and treatment options instead of traditional punitive measures. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the judicial system will take into account his history and the growing calls for a more rehabilitative approach.
