Hip-hop star Akon has pleaded guilty to harassment after he tossed a fan off a stage at a New York concert last year.

The 35-year-old escaped jail time but has been ordered to perform 65 hours of community service and pay a $250 (£160) fine.

The singer threw a teenage boy off the stage during a June 2007 concert at a minor league baseball stadium resulting in another concertgoer suffering a concussion when the teen landed on her.

Witnesses said a spectator threw something at Akon during the show at Dutchess Stadium.

After he asked the crowd to point out the culprit, a security guard picked up a 15-year-old boy and sent him up to the stage.

Akon hoisted the teen onto his shoulders and flung him into the crowd. The incident was caught on videotape.

After the plea, Akon shook hands with Anthony Smith, the now 16-year-old fan, and apologised to him and his parents.

Akon declined comment as he left with his lawyer. He issued a written statement saying: "We are pleased that the case has been resolved and Akon looks forward to putting this unfortunate incident behind him."

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