POLICE LAUNCH RIHANNA PIC INVESTIGATION

Chris Brown

Los Angeles California police have launched an official investigation into how a photograph allegedly showing a badly beat up Rihanna was leaked on the Internet. The shocking police photograph, which was posted on celebrity Web site TMZ.com, features a close-up of what appears to be the "Umbrella" singer with contusions on her forehead, a swollen nose and a bloody lip. The injuries are said to relate to a alleged fight between the singer and her boyfriend Chris Brown in the early hours of February 8th, which allegedly left her in need of medical treatment. Brown was charged with making criminal threats following the incident. L.A. police have refused to confirm the identity of the woman in the photo, but admit the picture was taken during a recent domestic violence investigation. Officials at the police department have now launched a probe to find whoever was responsible for the leak. A statement from the L.A. police reads, "The unauthorized release of a domestic violence photograph immediately generated an internal investigation. The Media Relations Section began receiving numerous enquiries about the release of a photograph associated with a domestic violence incident that occurred on February 8, 2009, involving entertainer Chris Brown. 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."
Photos By: Sara De Boer/Retna