Naomi Campbell might settle New York assault case

NEW YORK, Nov 16 (Reuters) Supermodel Naomi Campbell could be nearing a plea deal on a charge of assaulting her housekeeper with a cell phone, a New York state prosecutor said .

''We are still in the process of working out a possible disposition,'' Assistant District Attorney Shanda Strain yesterday told Judge Evelyn Laporte.

Lawyers for the British-born model, who wore a simple gray dress with a bow in front to Manhattan Criminal Court yesterday, said nothing during the hearing.

The judge set a new hearing for January 16, when Campbell could either accept a plea deal or possibly be charged with second-degree assault.

The judge also granted Strain's request to extend an order that bans Campbell from having any contact with housekeeper Ana Scolavino.

The 36-year-old celebrity model faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of second-degree assault.

Reuters DKA GC0917