NICKY HILTON - NICKY SLAMS 'PARIS STEALING SEX TAPE' CLAIMS

LATEST: American socialite NICKY HILTON has leapt to the defence of her older sister PARIS, following allegations the SIMPLE LIFE star stole a copy of her infamous sex video from a West Hollywood newsstand.

Last week (ends21JAN05) images from the SWING NEWS' surveillance camera appeared in US tabloids, clearly showing the 23-year-old hotel heiress reaching out for a copy of ONE NIGHT IN PARIS and then putting it in her bag.

Local police authorities confirm they are investigating the 23-year-old reality TV star for suspicion of petty theft, following Swing News employee GERRY CASTRO's allegations on scandal TV show CELEBRITY JUSTICE last Thursday (20JAN05).

Local Deputy Sheriff STEVE SUZUKI says, "There was an incident, and she is alleged to have taken something."

While Paris' spokesperson is yet to make an official comment, Nicky blasted Castro's allegations on Los Angeles radio station KABC, saying, "She did something anyone would have done in this situation. It's not a big deal. Whatever - she doesn't care.

"I think this guy is trying to make it into a big deal, to get some publicity for his newsstand."

Paris leapt in international fame in November 2003 after the sex tape, featuring her and ex-boyfriend RICK SALOMON, was leaked onto the internet.