Oakland City Councilmember Rowena Brown is recovering from injuries after being attacked and robbed inside her West Oakland apartment by an acquaintance, identified as party promoter Ashatae Millhouse. The incident occurred early Sunday, July 18, according to Brown's office.
Police responded to the residence after midnight and identified Millhouse, 38, as the suspect. Court records indicate Millhouse was visiting Brown's home when she was asked to leave due to escalating behavior. Millhouse allegedly responded by punching Brown, causing her to fall, then dragging her by her hair into the living room, placing a knee on her neck, and attempting to strangle her.
Brown reportedly escaped and drove away from the apartment, telling authorities she saw Millhouse leave with her purse and two phones. Surveillance cameras captured Millhouse departing with the items.
Millhouse was arrested on Tuesday and faces charges including assault with force likely to produce great bodily harm, first-degree residential robbery, and false imprisonment by violence.
Brown described Millhouse as an acquaintance she had been supporting, and social media photos show the two together at a Juneteenth party in 2023. Brown had also appointed Millhouse to the city's Cannabis Regulatory Commission in February.
Elected officials, including Mayor Barbara Lee, have expressed solidarity with Brown as she recovers and continues her service to the Oakland community.