Kanye West Claims Self-Defense in Paparazzi Altercation
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George Napolitano/FilmMagic(LOS ANGELES) — Kanye West is claiming self-defense against the paparazzi who is suing him following a July altercation at Los Angeles International Airport.
The self-defense papers, obtained by TMZ and filed by West’s attorney Jeremiah Reynolds on Sept. 20, state that the plaintiff Daniel Ramos is not entitled to any compensation because he caused West “to reasonably believe his safety was in immediate danger.”
The court papers claim that West, 36, did only what was “reasonably necessary” and “justified” when the photographer allegedly threatened his safety.
The incident was caught on video and also posted by TMZ, and shows Ramos trying to talk to West as he’s leaving the airport. West says, “What you’re trying to do is get me in trouble, so I step off and have to pay you like $250,000.”
A second after, West lunges at Ramos and the two wrestle over the camera, then the rapper leaves the scene. Ramos was taken to the hospital after and filed suit in August for alleged battery.
People magazine reported that after Ramos filed the suit, West was charged with criminal battery and attempted grand theft, both misdemeanors, said Los Angeles City Attorney spokesman Frank Mateljan.
“We think that his defenses are ludicrous and contrary to what the video shows,” Ramos’ attorney Gloria Allred told ABC News of West’s claim. “We are looking forward to going to court and seeing Mr. West trying to prove his response in a court of law.”
A trial date has not been set.
Efforts to reach West’s attorney were not immediately returned.
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