(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Justin Bieber was accused of assaulting a paparazzo over the weekend and he may now face criminal prosecution.

The 17-year-old pop star was at a mall in Calabasas, California with girlfriend Selena Gomez when the incident allegedly occurred.

And now TMZ reports that the Canadian singer is not going to see the back of the allegation any time soon because the case is going to be referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney.

Police have apparently already decided to put the case to prosecutors although the investigation is still ongoing.

Officials want to speak to Justin about his side of the story but he is currently in Norway.

The photographer called emergency services after the alleged scuffle and the Baby star is now a suspect of criminal battery. He and Selena fled the scene by the time police arrived.

If Justin is convicted of the misdemeanor he could face six months in jail. (C) Cover Media