Spector arrested after fight with driver
Police: Pair had dispute over business relationship
From Dree Declamecy
CNN
LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- Music producer Phil Spector, who is facing murder charges in connection with the shooting death of an actress at his suburban mansion last year, was arrested Friday morning after an altercation with his driver, police said.
Alhambra police officers responding to a 911 call from Spector's home about 10:15 a.m. (1:15 p.m. ET) were greeted by Spector and his driver, Tobie Wheeler, 46.
Wheeler was also arrested.
Officers determined that they had been involved in a "physical altercation ... over their business relationship," according to a police statement.
"We don't know exactly what prompted the assaults," Alhambra Police Lt. Elliot Kase told CNN. "It's basically our understanding they were having a falling out over their business together -- which was coming to an end."
Spector and Wheeler asked that the other be arrested for misdemeanor battery. Police said no weapons were involved.
"Mr. Spector has been released on his own recognizance and given a citation with a court date of June 14," Kase said. "Mr. Wheeler's release is still in process, pending confirmation of his identify through fingerprints."
The Alhambra Fire Department was called to treat both men for minor injuries. Spector reported a minor injury to his right hand, while Wheeler complained of an injury to his jaw.
Spector is facing a murder charge in the death of actress Lana Clarkson, who was found shot to death in February 2003 at his mansion in Alhambra. He has pleaded not guilty.
