Russell Brand will reportedly claim he was provoked if he faces felony charges following his arrest last week.

The British comedian was charged with two counts of criminal damage to property last Thursday, after he turned himself into police custody.

The New Orleans Police Department issued a warrant for his arrest after Russell snatched a paparazzo's mobile phone and launched it into the window of a law firm as he was walking down a street in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Monday.

The broken window and the damage to the mobile phone exceeded $500, which is why Russell could face a felony charge. He has since paid the $240 to have the window replaced.

TMZ reports Russell claims the photographer provoked him, which is why the incident occurred.

"He's going to use provocation to fight any charge that might be filed against him," reports the site.

The 36-year-old star has also hired attorney Robert Glass to fight his case. It's thought the lawyer will insist the damage caused actually totalled less than $500 should Russell face a felony charge, as they believe the iPhone was hardly affected.

If he is charged with a felony, Russell faces a maximum of two years in prison.

Russell was released on $5,000 bond. He was in New Orleans shooting a new movie.