lawsuits

David LaChapelle Sued by Gallerist for Assault

James Parmenter (left) and David Lachapelle.
James Parmenter (left) and David Lachapelle. Photo: Patrick McMullan

Renowned photographer David LaChapelle, who made his name shooting celebrities like Madonna and Pamela Anderson for publications like Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone before retreating to an organic farm in Maui to pursue his fine art projects, has been accused of assaulting 25-year-old gallerist James Parmenter. According to a lawsuit filed in New York this week, LaChapelle allegedly attacked Parmenter in a Chelsea apartment in March 2012, beating and strangling him until he lost consciousness. Parmenter, who reportedly met LaChapelle through the photographer’s former manager, Fred Torres, has since moved to Montana and opened an art gallery. He is now seeking $1 million in damages for the incident. The Post reports that a rep for LaChapelle has denied the allegations.

David LaChapelle Sued by Gallerist for Assault