CHRIS BROWN PLEADS NOT GUILTY

Accused baby-face beat down artist Chris Brown plays innocent.

As expected, the 19 year old R&B; singer,19, pleaded "not guilty" to charges he assaulted GF Rihanna during a lover's quarrel Feb 8 prior to the Grammy Awards..

The Barbados born thrush was not present but sent her lawyer in her stead.

Brown has been in negotiations to forge a plea deal sparing him slammer time. If convicted, he faces a 5 year sentence.

The charges stem from an horrific assault Brown gave the victim known only on official police records as Robyn F. after Brown received a booty call text message, prompting the conflagration.

Brown returns to Los Angeles Superior Court for another hearing April 29th.