Dave Chappelle attack: Suspect pleads not guilty in Hollywood Bowl assault
LOS ANGELES - The man suspected of attacking Dave Chappelle on stage at the Hollywood Bowl during the Netflix Is A Joke Fest earlier this week made his first court appearance Friday and pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
FOX 11’s Phil Shuman reported during the appearance in the courtroom, that 23-year-old Isaiah Lee was ordered by a judge to stay 100 yards away from Chappelle, any venue where he is performing and from his residence. He also was ordered to stay 100 yards away from the Hollywood Bowl.
Who is Isaiah Lee?
Authorities said Lee is currently experiencing homelessness and receiving mental health counseling through county services. He said he's been waiting for housing for two years.
Lee apparently told Chappelle that he attacked him to get attention for his grandma whose house was being gentrified. It is not clear if that is the exact reason for the attack.
During the assault, police say Lee was armed with a replica gun that had a blade inside it.
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Lee's charges explained
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón's office refused to file any felony charges against Lee and handed the case to the city attorney.
"After reviewing the evidence, prosecutors determined that while criminal conduct occurred, the evidence as presented did not constitute felony conduct," the county DA's office explained.
The Los Angeles City Attorney's Office filed four misdemeanor charges against Lee on Thursday, which include: battery, possession of a weapon with intent to assault, unauthorized access to the stage, and commission of an act that delays the event or interferes with the performer.
Lee remains in custody on a $30,000 bond and a bail review hearing is scheduled for next week.
Dave Chappelle Jokes About the Event
Comedy fans paid $160 for a ticket as word began circulating that Chappelle would make an appearance at The Comedy Store on Thursday night, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
The news outlet said he spoke about the attack publicity for the first time and said that he felt relief seeing Jamie Foxx wearing what he described as "a sheriff’s hat," which calmed his nerves after the scary attack.
Chris Rock, who was slapped on the Oscars stage by Will Smith for the world to see, joined Chappelle on stage later in the evening. "At least you got smacked by someone of repute!" Chappelle joked to Rock. "I got smacked by a homeless guy with leaves in his hair."