Tila has blamed the D.A. for not pressing charges against ex-boyfriend Shawne Merriman for assaulting her and thus vows to "begin pursuing civil charges" against him.
- Sep 12, 2009
AceShowbiz - Internet pin-up Tila Tequila is lashing out at The San Diego District Attorney's office for dropping her battery case against ex-boyfriend, footballer Shawne Merriman. Showing off her disappointment, she has stated in a statement issued by her representative that the D.A. has made reckless decision for not filing criminal charges against Shawne and thus she will "immediately begin pursuing civil charges" against him.
Tila made a 911 call at 3:45 A.M. on Sunday, September 6, telling authorities she had been choked by Shawne and was physically restrained by him after she tried to leave his Southern California house following an argument. Before being transported to a local hospital, she signed a complaint at the scene, accusing Shawne of battery and false imprisonment that then led to his arrest.
Taken into custody shortly after the incident, Shawne was released on $58,000 bail later that day. To the press he insisted he didn't choke or physically restrain Tila. Instead he claimed he "was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in" and "encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided." Tila, on the other hand, insisted she is allergic to alcohol.
Following the twosome's war of words and after careful investigation, the D.A. however decided that there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Shawne has committed a crime. "After a thorough review ... our office has determined there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that any crime was committed," San Diego District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis said Friday, September 11. "This case is now closed. No further comment will be made."
In a statement exclusively obtained by TMZ, Tila's representative declared, "Just because the DA has made this reckless decision doesn't mean that justice will not be served in this case. No one is above the law. Tila Tequila will immediately begin pursuing civil charges against Mr. Merriman and she will have her day in court."
