Entertainment

Sam Worthington arrested in New York City

/ CBS/AP

Police say actor Sam Worthington has been arrested in New York City for punching a photographer after the man allegedly kicked Worthington's girlfriend, Lara Bingle, in the shin.

The 37-year-old "Avatar" actor was arrested on an assault charge following the incident at about 5:30 p.m. Sunday in Greenwich Village.

Celebrity mugshots 42 photos

The Australian actor was released on a desk appearance ticket and is due back in court on Feb. 26. Police did not say what caused the scuffle.

The photographer, 37-year-old Sheng Li, was arrested on charges of reckless endangerment, assault and harassment. He's being held pending arraignment.

It wasn't immediately clear if both had lawyers.

Worthington is attached to the upcoming "Avatar" sequels. His other credits include "Clash of the Titans" and "Terminator Salvation."

Sam Worthington and Lara Bingle arrive at the 3rd annual AACTA Awards Ceremony at The Star on Jan. 30, 2014, in Sydney, Australia. Getty Images
 

© 2014 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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