Bryshere Y. Gray, the 31-year-old actor known for “Empire,” is facing an assault and battery charge, but the story behind it is more complicated than a headline. Chesapeake police say they didn’t arrest Gray themselves; instead, the charge was brought by a private citizen—one of Gray’s associates, Dustin Wilkins, who goes by Chosen Wilkins.

According to court papers, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon at a Homewood Suites following an argument. Wilkins says Gray charged him from behind a car, hitting him with a shoulder check, throwing punches, and even hitting him while he was recording the fight on his phone. Wilkins’ description makes it clear it was a physical confrontation that escalated quickly.

But here’s where the story shifts gears. In an exclusive on-camera interview with 10 On Your Side’s Andy Fox, Wilkins paints a different picture of Gray, not as a villain, but as someone grappling with mental health challenges. “Something took place in a mental health aspect,” Wilkins said, carefully avoiding specifics but emphasizing, “Bryshere is a friend, he’s like my brother. He is just someone who is dealing with some very interesting mental health issues.”

Wilkins didn’t just speak out, he also helped Gray secure bond, insisting, “Bryshere doesn’t need to be in jail. He wouldn’t survive in jail. He needs mental help.”

Gray’s past adds another layer to this story. Back in 2020, he was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona, on allegations of assaulting his wife. Whether that case is connected to his current situation remains unclear, but it’s a reminder of the complicated road Gray has been on.

Gray is expected to appear in court for his arraignment on Wednesday. As the legal process unfolds, the spotlight remains on his mental health and how the justice system handles cases involving individuals living with such challenges.