December 15, 2006 12:00

Yoko Ono's driver charged with blackmail

Koral Karsan "vigorously disputes" the claims

Yoko Ono's driver has been charged, after allegedly attempting to blackmail John Lennon's widow.

The decision comes after Koral Karsan threatened to release photos and audio tapes of her unless she handed over $2m (£1.02 million). He also allegedly talked about killing Ono and her son Sean in a conversation recorded by investigators.

He has been charged with attempted grand larceny, and bailed for $500,000 (£255,000).

Karsan's lawyer said his client will "vigorously dispute" the charges, reports BBC NEWS.

His blackmail attempt allegedly took place on the 26th anniversary of Lennon's death.

The chauffeur worked for Ono for six years and drove her around almost on a daily basis, reports BBC News.

Lennon was shot dead by Mark Chapman on December 8 in 1980.