Model Campbell back in US court

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/world/americas/6152302.stm

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Supermodel Naomi Campbell has appeared before a New York court over allegations that she assaulted her housekeeper with a mobile phone.

Prosecutors have indicated that they are discussing a plea bargain for the 36-year-old Londoner.

Assistant District Attorney Shanda Strain told the court both sides were still in a "process of working out a possible disposition".

Miss Campbell faces up to a seven-year sentence if found guilty.

The model is accused of hitting Ana Scolavino with a mobile phone following an argument at her apartment in New York.

Miss Campbell's lawyer, David Breitbart, spoke of the possibility of the case going to trial but said his client's fame "might mitigate against that".

"It wouldn't surprise me if community service were part of that option", he added.

But he added that any such service would have to be "palatable", preferring to see his client engaged in fund-raising for cancer or Aids research.

The trial has been adjourned until January, while discussions between the two sides in the case continue.