TV host Andrew O'Keefe lashes photographer
Television presenter Andrew O'Keefe has lashed out at a news photographer on his way out of a Sydney court.
The host of the Seven Network's game show The Chase Australia struck a news photographer on the upper body with a folder when leaving Downing Centre Local Court on Monday.
Andrew O'Keefe returns to the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney, Monday, March 4, 2019. AAP
AAP photographer Joel Carrett was taking pictures of O'Keefe on the court's steps when O'Keefe swore and then hit him twice.
"I turned to walk down the front steps and he struck me on the back of my head with his folder," Carrett said.
"He struck me again before the end of footpath and then he ran through traffic."
Andrew O'Keefe leaves the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney, Monday, March 4, 2019. AAP
O'Keefe was quick to deny he'd hit the photographer.
"Mate, if a photographer chooses to get in the way of my folder, that's the photographer's fault," he told AAP.
Andrew O'Keefe's folder came in contact with a photographer. AAP
AAP editor-in-chief Tony Gillies said in a statement that Carrett was not physically injured in the incident.
"We are also satisfied that Joel kept a respectful distance and did not obstruct Mr O'Keefe's path as he left the court," Gillies said, adding "AAP will not pursue the matter any further".
Andrew O'Keefe returns to the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney, Monday, March 4, 2019. AAP
O'Keefe was in court on Monday charged with driving an unregistered vehicle.
The 47-year-old pleaded guilty and was handed a 12-month good behaviour bond without a conviction.
Seven has been contacted for comment.
