U.S. recording artist Chris Brown has hired the publicist who helped actor Mel Gibson deal with a scandal a few years ago, MTV.co.uk reported.

Brown, 19, was arrested for allegedly threatening his 20-year-old girlfriend Rihanna earlier this month. Media reports have claimed he beat her and subsequent charges may be filed against him as the investigation continues. Brown is due to be arraigned next month.

MTV.co.uk said Brown has enlisted the help of public relations giant Alan Nierob, the man who advised Gibson after he made anti-Semitic remarks in 2006 while being arrested for drunken driving.

"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," Brown said in a statement released this week. "I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person."