A North College Hill mother is facing four misdemeanor charges after police say she confronted her teenage daughter’s classmate and encouraged her daughter to fight the girl following a dispute that reportedly began on social media.
November Alisha Brooks, 38, was released on her own recognizance after appearing in court Monday. She is charged with inciting to violence, assault, menacing and disorderly conduct in connection with the incident, which allegedly happened Friday morning in North College Hill.
According to court documents, Brooks encountered the teenager while the girl was walking to school. Police allege that Brooks threatened the student before getting into a vehicle with her 17-year-old daughter.
Investigators say Brooks then drove to the area of the 1800 block of Bising Avenue, where she allegedly confronted the teenager and told her daughter to get out of the vehicle and fight the girl.
Police say the encounter was captured on camera. Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Keeling said investigators reviewed the video before charges were filed.
The dispute reportedly grew out of a social media disagreement involving a boy liking someone’s photograph. Brooks’ attorney, Kevin Bobo, disputed the allegation that she instructed her daughter to assault the other teenager, saying the situation developed after an issue involving the teens the previous night.
Brooks’ daughter has not been charged in connection with the incident.
The case also has an unusual element because prosecutors allege that an adult encouraged a juvenile to become involved in a physical confrontation. A legal analyst speaking about the case described that type of allegation as uncommon and potentially difficult to prove, although prosecutors say they have video evidence.
During Monday’s hearing, Brooks’ attorney argued that she did not pose a danger to the community. He said she had no prior criminal history, had turned herself in and had family and employment support. He also told the court that Brooks teaches a Bible class for young people at her church.
The judge ultimately allowed Brooks to remain out of custody without requiring bail.
The video referenced by prosecutors was not shown during the hearing, so the public has not seen the footage that police say documents the confrontation.
If convicted on all four misdemeanor counts, Brooks could face a combined maximum of up to 13 months in jail under the charges filed against her.
Her next court appearance is scheduled for November 10. The allegations remain pending, and Brooks has not been convicted of any crime in connection with the incident.
