Extra correspondent
Terri Seymour, also known as Simon Cowell's ex-girlfriend, was attacked and choked after leaving Los Angeles' Nokia Theatre following
"American Idol" finale, according to
TMZ.
The assault took place at L.A. Live, a complex that includes the Nokia Theatre where American Idol was filmed. According to a spokesperson for the LAPD, a 33 year-old woman identified as Janice Thibodeaux, accosted Seymour, 34, as she exited the venue and asked her if she was Simon Cowell's girlfriend. As soon as Seymour confirmed her identity, the suspect allegedly grabbed hold of the TV host's neck and attempted to choke her.
Thibodeaux was immediately arrested and booked on felony battery charges. She's being held on $52,700 bail. According to
TMZ, Seymour declined medical treatment and was escorted from the scene accompanied by three police officers.
Thibodeaux's siblings reached out to
TMZ to make a statement about their sister saying that she is "not crazy" and that her behavior outside the Idol taping -- where Kris Allen defeated Adam Lambert and was crowned winner of Season Eight - was "way out of character."
Seymour and Cowell split in October, ending a relationship that began in 2002.
