Akon Goes on Trial for Tossing Fan

Akon is finally going on trial for throwing a fan off the stage, and into a crowd in June of 2007 at a concert in New York state. Akon faces charges of endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree harassment. A female fan in audience said she got a concussion when Akon threw the boy on her.

Fishkill Town Justice Harold Epstein ordered Akon, who was present in court for today’s 9 a.m. hearing, to return to Fishkill Justice Court December 1 for the start of the jury trial.

Akon faces a maximum of one year and 15 days behind bars if convicted on both charges.

Dutchess County Assistant District Attorney Anthony Parisi requested that Akon’s attorney, Andrea Zellan, attempt to reach a deal within the next two weeks, before notices are mailed out to potential jurors.

Akon’s attorney released the following statement:

"We are pleased that Judge Epstein adjourned the case to a date certain for either a trial or a negotiated resolution. Akon looks forward to putting this incident behind him, and in the meantime, he will continue to meet every requirement set forth by the court."

Akon will settle.