Chris Brown protects his life

Jun 10, 2009, 12:02 GMT

The 20-year-old singer - who has pleaded not guilty to assaulting his on/off girlfriend Rihanna in February - has employed increased security amid concerns he could be attacked at any moment. EPA/BOB CHAMBERLIN

Chris Brown is "totally paranoid" after receiving death threats.

The 20-year-old singer - who has pleaded not guilty to assaulting his on/off girlfriend Rihanna in February - has employed increased security amid concerns he could be attacked at any moment.

America's Chicago Sun-Times newspaper reports: "It seems the music star has been targeted with death threats the authorities believe are actually legit.

"Brown is said to be 'totally paranoid' about the threats on his life and has become obsessed with his security."

Since the altercation with Rihanna - during which it is claimed Chris punched, bit and choked the 'Umbrella' singer in his rented silver Lamborghini - Chris has hardly left his home without three bodyguards at his side.

He is also said to have asked for an extra three or four security people to follow him around "incognito".

A Los Angeles Police Department source claimed these disguised guards have at times been women, but that they are "easily as tough as men".

Authorities are unclear whether the threats on Brown's life have come from one person or a group, although they are investigating claims they could be from an organisation called the Women's Protection Action League.

Although the true nature of the threats is unknown, it is reported Chris believes his potential attacker could be disguised as a paparazzi photographer.

This is not the first time the star has received menacing messages.

In February, it was claimed he had received threats on his life after a picture allegedly showing Rihanna's facial injuries following the supposed attack was leaked to a US gossip website.

Chris has been charged with felony assault and making criminal threats in relation to the incident with Rihanna, and is due back in court on June 22.

At the hearing, 21-year-old Rihanna is expected to give evidence and be cross examined by Chris' lawyer Mark Geragos.

If convicted, Chris faces over four years in state jail.