Kanye West is notorious for his dislike of the paparazzi, but the rap superstar took it to a whole new level when he attacked a photographer who kept questioning him at LAX last Friday, grappling with the man before pushing him to the floor. Will West be prosecuted for his actions?
According to the Daily Mail, West will likely NOT be prosecuted, though this is not the first time he's gotten physical with a photographer. The star was arrested in 2008 after breaking a photographer's camera and equipment.
Investigators from LA Police's Robbery-Homicide Division told TMZ that it was "extremely unlikely" West would have charges brought against him as there is no proof he attempted to take the paparazzo's camera. Police officers will refer the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office in the next few days as a felony attempted robbery charge rather than a charge of battery.
In the event that West is charged with a misdemeanor for battery, he could have the option of a "civil compromise," meaning that he could pay off the complaint.
Two weeks ago, West was caught on film ranting at a different photographer who kept talking to him and asking him questions at the airport. "Yo, what's up, Yeezus? I'm a big fan, bro," the cameraman said before West stopped his cell phone conversation to confront the photographer, putting his hand on the camera to block the shot. "I appreciate it, but don't talk," he said. "That's fine, but don't talk to me."
After yelling at the photographer and repeatedly asking him not to film him, the papparazzo continued to follow West and ask him more questions. At the end of the video, West appeared ready to make a move before the camera was abruptly shut off.
West's most recent scandal involved a photographer named Dano, the same man who was attacked by Britney Spears with an umbrella while filming her in 2007. After West confronted him, an ambulance was called and Dano was treated for his injuries. However, many online speculate the alleged injuries were exaggerated by Dano and TMZ to further exploit the incident.
"What you're trying to do is get me in trouble, so I'll step off and have to pay you like $250,000," West said to Dano before charging him.
Click here to see photos from the incident in which West charged the photographer Dano, resulting in an ambulance being called.
