Entertainment website TMZ last night posted what appears to be a photograph of a battered Rihanna — allegedly taken right after her R&B boyfriend Chris Brown beat her. Soon after the picture was posted, LAPD released a statement saying that authorities do not release photographs of victims in domestic violence cases and this "confidential" photo should never have never been made public. Authorities have now launched an internal investigation to find out who sent the shot to the press.
In a statement made by LAPD, which was also posted on TMZ:
Los Angeles: The unauthorized release of a domestic violence photograph immediately generated an internal investigation. At about 7 p.m. on February 19, 2009, the Los Angeles Police Department Media Relations Section began receiving numerous inquiries about the release of a photograph associated with a domestic violence incident that occurred on February 8, 2009, involving entertainer Chris Brown. The photograph appeared on an entertainment website. The photograph has the appearance of one taken during an official domestic violence investigation. The Los Angeles Police Department takes seriously its duty to maintain the confidentiality of victims of domestic violence. The Department launched an immediate internal investigation and subsequently filed a personnel complaint.
A violation of this type is considered serious misconduct, with penalties up to and including termination. Anyone with information concerning the unauthorized release of the photograph is asked to call, during regular business hours, (213) 485-4152. After-hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to our 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text "CRIMES" with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on Web Tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with "LAPD." Tipsters may remain anonymous.
Rihanna, who turns 21 today, was allegedly choked, slapped around and bitten by her 19-year-old boyfriend. Brown was arrested and charged with making criminal threats. He’s been released on $50,000 bail and says he’s seeking help from friends, family and church. Rihanna has reportedly been recuperating in her native Barbados.
1 comment:
i guess it makes sense that Rihanna and Chris Brown's publicity reps are being so hushed about this
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