The British comic star was arrested on a misdemeanour charge of simple battery at Los Angeles International Airport last month after he pushed a photographer who was allegedly trying to take a picture up his fiancee Katy Perry`s skirt.

Despite prosecutors having no plans to formally charge the 35-year-old actor, he and the photographer - who performed a citizen`s arrest on Russell before police intervened and took him into custody for questioning - will still be required to attend court on November 19 so they can be lectured in the "letter of the law".

Frank Mateljan, Los Angeles City Attorney`s Office spokesman, told E! News: "This is the only action as of now. Based on the info, it has been determined that this is the most appropriate action at this time."

At the time of the incident, Katy - who is due to marry the comedian later this month - claimed the altercation only occurred because her fiance was "protecting" her.

She tweeted: "If you cross the line and try and put a lens up my dress, my fiance will do his job and protect me."
sections: Celebrities