Justin Bieber's Autograph Signing Caused Near-Riot, Record Label Exec Arrested

November 23, 2009 8:20 a.m. EST

New York, NY (CNS) - Canadian singer Justin Bieber's autograph signing caused a near-riot at a Long Island mall after thousands of fans showed up. His record label Island Def Jam Records senior VP of sales was also been arrested in the incident.

Over 10,000 fans stormed at the Roosevelt Field Mall in Long Island to get a glimpse of the 15-year-old Internet sensation, who was promoting his new album "MY World" at the clothing store Justice.

Fans began lining up as early as 9 a.m. in a bid to receive a yellow bracelet, a pass to meet the star. However, trouble began brewing up before 4 p.m.

People started screaming his name and running forward. Everyone was reportedly pushing and there were several fans who were knocked down in the stampede.

Hoping to bring order, Bieber sent out a Twitter message to his fans, saying, "They are not allowing me to come into the mall. If you don't leave I and my fans will be arrested as the police just told us."

"The event at Roosevelt mall is cancelled. Please go home? I don't want anyone hurt."

Police decided to cancel the event for being unsafe. Only minor injuries were reported.

Meanwhile, the label's senior VP of sales, James Roppo, was arrested for sending out Internet messages to over 3,000 fans that the singer was signing autographs even after officials dispersed the crowd.

He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, obstruction of governmental administration, reckless endangerment and criminal nuisance.