Gerard Butler Charged with Criminal Battery

Gerard Butler is, admittedly, the nicest guy around Hollywood at this point in time. However, even he has a limit that must not be crossed because bad things can happen, as the misdemeanor criminal charge just brought against him shows. According to TMZ, the “300” star has been charged and is now waiting arraignment, but has refused to make any comment on the situation so far.

Back in October 2008, as he was leaving an after-party for the release of “RocknRolla,” TMZ reports, Butler got physical with a photographer that allegedly chased him down the street. While the actor was not hurt in any way, the paparazzo got his lips smashed after Gerard punched him three or four times, it has been alleged in court papers. Until now, neither Butler nor his legal representative has made any comment regarding the charges brought against him.

“Butler has been charged with misdemeanor criminal battery in connection with a run-in with a photog on October 7, 2008. At 2 AM, after a premiere party for ‘RocknRolla,’ Butler left Crown Bar in a limo and allegedly popped a papper in the lips three or four times. The L.A. City Attorney filed the charge yesterday. Butler’s reps have said the papper had stalked the star, and chased people through the streets. The rep claims the papper almost killed a pedestrian. If convicted, Butler could face up to 6 months in jail.” TMZ reports.

Despite the fact that the paparazzo in question has made certain there is photographic evidence with him after the fight, many fans still question the accuracy of what he’s saying. For starters, they argue, Butler is not known for having an impulsive, highly flammable temperament (say, like Christian Bale or Russell Crowe), therefore his action must have been provoked or he really thought he or others were in danger. Secondly, a man who brings masseuses and doughnuts on set to make sure the cast is relaxed and happy can’t just pick up fights with random photographers, fans say.

In the meanwhile, Gerard is to present himself for his arraignment on June 10. An official statement on his behalf is also expected to drop any hour now, so keep an eye on this space for more.