'Rihanna' picture 'leaked to press'

A photograph supposedly of Rihanna taken in the aftermath of the alleged attack on her by Chris Brown has been leaked to the media.

The image, which was published on TMZ yesterday, shows what appears to be the singer with cut lips and bruises on her face.

A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said: "The unauthorised release of a domestic violence photograph immediately generated an internal investigation.

"A violation of this type is considered serious misconduct, with penalties up to and including termination."

He added that the LAPD "takes seriously its duty to maintain the confidentiality of victims of domestic violence".

Earlier this week, reports suggested Rihanna felt that Brown should have "expressed more contrition" in his public statements following the incident.