Kanye West Denies Paparazzi Assault In Airport

May 19, 2009 6:38 a.m. EST

Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - Rapper superstar Kanye West denies smashing a photographer's camera last year. The "Stronger" hitmaker has pleaded not guilty to assault, theft and vandalism charges on Friday.

West, 31, and his road manager Don Crawley, 33, was charged with two counts each of misdemeanor vandalism, battery, and grand theft stemming from a fracas with the paparazzi the Los Angeles International Airport on September 11, 2008.

Footage of the incident showed both men wrestling a camera away from a paparazzo. They were seen smashing parts of the $10,000 equipment into the ground.

Crawley also reportedly broke another photographer's camera.

If found guilty, West could face up to two and a half years in jail, while Crawley could face up to five.

Because the charge is a misdemeanor, West was not required to be present. His attorney, Blair Berk, appeared on his behalf before the scheduled arraignment on May 20.

The next hearing is scheduled on July 15.