By Shayna Jacobs
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MANHATTAN — A Manhattan photographer accused Kanye West and his staff members of assaulting him at a posh East Side venue at a show two years ago.
The photographer, Michael Vazquez, was allegedly abused by the controversial singer and his staffers, who may have "assaulted, battered, beat and threatened" him at the May 14, 2008 event, according to a lawsuit filed Wednesday, the New York Post reported.
West reportedly appeared at the show with an entourage of topless dancers in space helmets. He was paid $1 million to appear at Gustivino's, an East 59th Street, the Post said.
The 44-year-old photographer accused the star and his crew of causing "physical, mental and emotional illness," after they "detained and/or threatened and/or caused plaintiff to suffer injuries," the civil complaint says.
Vazaquez allegedly reported a shoulder injury and cuts to his face to police. He also claimed his camera and cell phone were taken at the event, police sources told the Post.
The photographer's lawyer did not immediately return a call for comment.
He is suing for an unspecified amount of monetary damages.
