Rihanna Issues Statement: Thanks fans for support, won’t comment on Brown

Rihanna has finally broken her silence on her beating at the hands of Chris Brown.

In a statement released to the media, Rihanna said that she would not comment on Brown, but did want to thank fans.

“At the request of the authorities, Rihanna is not commenting about the incident involving Chris Brown,” the statement read. “She wants to assure her fans that she remains strong, is doing well, and deeply appreciates the outpouring of support she has received during this difficult time.”

The statement follows growing controversy over the Rihanna assault photo published by TMZ. Los Angeles Police are investigating how the photo was leaked, with suggestions that TMZ may have paid for the official LAPD evidence shot. A police spokesman said an internal investigation could lead to criminal conspiracy charges.