Kanye West Claims Self Defense in Paparazzi Lawsuit

Kanye West has responded to criminal charges brought against him for attacking a paparazzo, E! News reported Monday.

West insisted, through his lawyer Shawn Holley, that he acted in self defense.  A pap by the name of Daniel Ramos is suing West and battery charges were levied against West for their altercation that was caught on tape. Ramos attained the services of Gloria Allred in August and held a press conference where a lawsuit was promised. On Sept. 13, West became the subject of criminal charges because of the incident. The Watch the Throne rapper was charged with criminal battery and attempted grand theft. They are both misdemeanors with maximum penalties of six months each.

According to court documents, West believed he acted appropriately in July when he charged towards Ramos as LAX Airport in Los Angeles and that Ramos should not be awarded any money because he has not "been damaged in any amount whatsoever."

Furthermore, Holley placed the burden of blame upon Ramos. The court filing stated that Ramos "willfully and wrongfully caused [West] to reasonably believe his safety was in danger,

Allred responded to the filing and dismissed it.

"We think that his defenses are ludicrous and contrary to what the video shows. We are looking forward to going to court and seeing Mr. West trying to prove his response in a court of law," the attorney said.