Sunday, 22 February 2009

Rihanna sends message to fans after Chris Brown alleged assault

Singer appears to have black eyes in leaked photo but 'remains strong'

Rihanna | Rihanna's rise to fame | Pictures | Now Magazine | Celebrity Gossip

Rihanna has thanked her loyal fans

The first photo of Rihanna after she was allegedly assaulted by boyfriend Chris Brown was leaked online last week and now the singer has made a statement.

Rihanna thanks fans for their support.

'At the request of the authorities, Rihanna is not commenting about the incident involving Chris Brown," the star's spokesperson says.

'She wants to assure her fans that she remains strong.'

The image appears to show Rihanna - who is currently believed to be hiding in Barbados - with 2 black eyes, a swollen lip and bruises on her forehead.

Chris, 19, was arrested and charged with making criminal threats on 8 February, just hours before he and Rihanna, 21, were due to appear at the Grammy Awards in LA.

Chris released a statement on 15 February apologising for his actions.

Meanwhile, officers are now investigating how US website TMZ managed to get their hands on the photo.

'The Los Angeles Police Department takes seriously its duty to maintain the confidentiality of victims of domestic violence,' reads a statement.

'A violation of this type is considered serious misconduct, with penalties up to and including termination.'

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