IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Taylor Swift's father will not face charges over alleged assault on Australian photographer

Photographer Ben McDonald claimed Scott Swift punched him in Sydney as Swift stepped off a yacht with his daughter.
Kansas City Chiefs v New England Patriots
Taylor Swift hugs her father, Scott Kingsley Swift, while the Kansas City Chiefs and the New England Patriots play in Foxborough, Mass., on Dec. 17.Maddie Meyer / Getty Images

Taylor Swift's dad will not face legal actions over accusations he assaulted a photographer, Australian police confirmed.

Officers "conducted an investigation following a report of an assault" on Feb. 27 at Neutral Bay Wharf in Sydney. "No further police action will be taken in relation to the matter," the New South Wales Police Force said in a statement to NBC News on Wednesday.

Photographer Ben McDonald claimed Scott Swift punched him after Swift stepped off a yacht with his daughter last month. McDonald did not require medical treatment.

Image:
Ben McDonald, a photographer, told police Taylor Swift's father punched him on the Sydney waterfront.Ben McDonald / AP

“It was just a punch in the chops. It’s a little tender, but I don’t have any bruising,” McDonald told The Associated Press.

“In 23 years, I haven’t been assaulted and punched in the chops, particularly by the talent’s dad,” he added.

Taylor Swift wrapped up the Australian leg of her Eras Tour the previous night and was in the Sydney area when the incident happened. 

“Two individuals were aggressively pushing their way towards Taylor, grabbing at her security personnel, and threatening to throw a female staff member into the water,” Swift’s team said.

Police declined to name anyone involved, saying in their initial statement only that "a 71-year-old man allegedly assaulted a 51-year-old man."

Sky News Australia and Reuters first reported that Scott Swift had been accused and that a photographer was involved.