DOJ starts probe on $1-M estafa case vs Chris Brown

MANILA, Philippines - American singer Chris Brown was a no-show when the Department of Justice (DOJ) started yesterday  its preliminary investigation on the $1-million estafa case filed against him and his promoter John Michael Pio Roda by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).

Brown was not represented by a lawyer during the hearing.

Roda attended the proceeding after being taken from the Bureau of Immigration detention facility in Taguig, where he has been held since last week for reported violation of immigration laws.

Accompanied by lawyer Sarah Abraham, Roda asked for more time to answer the complaint.

“It’s just today that we were able to receive a copy of the complaint,” Abraham told reporters. “We intend to address all allegations during the next hearing when we file our counter-affidavit.”

DOJ Assistant State Prosecutor Christine Marie Buencamino gave him 15 days or until the next hearing on Aug. 17 to submit a counter-affidavit.

The investigation may proceed even if Brown decides not to participate since the proceeding is “not a compulsory process,” Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said.

However, the absence of the respondent  is considered a waiver of his right to answer the allegations, De Lima said.

She said if the prosecutor decides to file the case in court, legal measures are available, including Brown's extradition.     

Last week, authorities stopped Brown from leaving the country due to the $1-million estafa complaint filed by INC head legal counsel Glicerio Santos IV against the singer for failing to fulfill his commitment to perform at the Philippine Arena during the New Year countdown celebration on Dec. 31, 2014.

Brown was finally allowed to leave the country, but Roda was detained for violation of immigration laws.