Shields defends Sutherland over headbutting

Brooke Shields has spoken out in defence of Kiefer Sutherland after he allegedly headbutted a fashion designer who had accidentally bumped into her.

The 24 star was charged with misdemeanour assault after designer Jack McCollough accused him of a "vicious, violent and unprovoked" attack at an afterparty for the Met Costume Ball last week.

In a statement, an attorney for the actress said: "While at the party she was bumped into by Jack McCollough and Kiefer Sutherland became concerned.

"Kiefer has always been a gentleman in her company. Both Jack and Kiefer are friends of Ms Shields and she regrets this unfortunate situation."

The lawyer added that a "number of statements" that have been attributed to Shields in the aftermath of the event are "neither true nor authorised" and "were obviously made by those who were not in attendance".

Sutherland recently denied the accusations against him, claiming that he was "neither the instigator nor the wrongdoer" in the incident.