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Chris Brown apologises to Rihanna

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-07-22 09:03

Chris Brown has apologised for his "inexcusable" assault on ex-girlfriend Rihanna.

In a video posted online the 20-year-old singer says sorry for his actions - which led to a conviction for felony assault last month - and insists he accepts "full responsibility" over the attack in February, which left 'Umbrella' singer Rihanna with several facial injuries and temporarily unconscious.

In the video, Chris says: "I felt it was time you hear directly from me that I am sorry.

"I take great pride in me being able to exercise self-control, and what I did was inexcusable. I am very saddened and very ashamed of what I have done. My mother and my spiritual teachers have taught me way better than that."

Chris pleaded guilty to the felony assault charge in a plea bargain, which has kept him out of jail but seen him sentenced to five years probation and six months of community labour - to be served in his home state of Virginia.

He will also have to undertake a year of domestic violence classes and pay fines.

Chris is also forbidden from phoning, emailing or texting Rihanna, 21, and cannot come within 50 yards of her.

In the two-minute video, Chris adds: "I have told Rihanna countless times, and I am telling you today, that I am truly sorry and that I wasn't able to handle the situation both differently and better.

"As many of you know, I grew up in a home where there was domestic violence and I saw firsthand what uncontrolled rage can do.

"What I did was unacceptable 100 percent. I can only ask and pray that you forgive me - please.

He ends the recording by saying: "In conclusion, I hope that others learn from my mistake. I intend to live my life so that I am truly worthy of the term 'role model'."