AKON - AKON PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO FAN THROWING CHARGES

AKON PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO FAN THROWING CHARGES

LATEST: R+B star AKON has pleaded not guilty to charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and second-degree harassment relating to an incident in which he allegedly threw a fan off the stage during a New York gig. The Smack That hitmaker was performing in Fishkill in June (07) when an audience member threw an object at him. The culprit was brought to the stage by security upon Akon's request, before hoisting the teenager onto his shoulders and throwing him back into the audience. The youth landed on another teenager, who later claimed she had been diagnosed with concussion, according to TMZ.com. But the singer - who entered his plea on Monday (03Dec07) when he appeared in court in Fishkill, New York, for arraignment - insists he never meant to hurt anyone. His lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, says, "It was never Akon's intention to violate the law. This unfortunate incident was a spontaneous reaction during a live concert that Akon deeply regrets." Akon was released of his own recognisance after his brief court appearance and is due to return to face the charges in January (08). Police have been investigating the incident since the summer (07) and officially pressed charges against Akon last week (30Nov07).