Kelly Bensimon, the 40-year-old former model and marathon runner, is making waves as the latest addition to the Real Housewives of New York City cast.
Bensimon now faces misdemeanor assault charges for allegedly attacking her boyfriend, Nick Stefanov.
On March 5, at 9:10 a.m., Bensimon was arrested for reportedly punching her partner in the face, leaving a cut beneath his left eye.
The New York City Police Department confirmed the misdemeanor assault charge to PEOPLE.
Bensimon’s attorney, Stephen Turano, states that she has pleaded not guilty, adding, “We are confident that the charges are baseless and anticipate a swift resolution.”
Reports suggest that Bensimon engaged in a physical altercation with Stefanov, resulting in a black eye and a gash on his left cheek.
Following the incident, Stefanov left the apartment and headed to the police station.
While there are rumors that the couple is engaged, a source close to Bensimon disputes this claim.
The source says, “[Stefanov] is making the absurd assertion that they were engaged. In their on-and-off relationship spanning three to three-and-a-half years, they were never exclusive. Bensimon consistently dated other individuals.”
The same friend revealed that Bensimon is “distressed and humiliated” by the situation and mentioned that Stefanov has attempted to contact her since the charges were filed.
Having turned herself in to the police, Bensimon now faces a misdemeanor charge of third-degree assault.
