Ashanti's Mum's Terror Over Fan's 'Lewd' Texts

Ashanti's mother has taken the stand in New York City to describe her terror after a fan allegedly bombarded her with lewd text messages about herdaughter.

Devar Hurd, 31, is accused of sending more than 30 messages to Tina Douglas' cell phone earlier this year (09) before he was arrested in July (09).

The texts allegedly included sexual and romantic scenarios, career advice for Ashanti and comments about her relationship with rapper Nelly, as well as photos of male genitalia.

Speaking to the Manhattan jury on Thursday (17Dec09), Douglas testifiedthat she had contacted Hurd and asked him to stop sending the messages, because the content left her fearing for her daughter's safety.

Douglas told the court, "I'm thinking in my mind, rape... It was insulting. It was very disrespectful. It was just disgusting and humiliating and extremely frightening".

Speaking on behalf of Hurd, his lawyer, Richard Berchick, said, "It-s misguided and it may be sick, but it's not criminal. His intent was never to harass. Hurd, who is being held on $50,000 (£31,250) bond, has pleaded notguilty to stalking and aggravated harassment. He faces up to two years in prison if convicted.

The trial continues.