Harrelson was sued for violating the photographers' civil rights and causing them emotional distress and pain.

He testified at the US District Court in Boston that he was trying to protect the privacy of his two-year-old daughter and his wife when he scuffled at Martha's Vineyard Airport with Star magazine photographer Steven Connolly and freelance video cameraman Paul Adao.

"Probably the most important thing is my daughter's rights are not being taken into consideration," he said.

Harrelson's wife, Laura Louie, testified that Connolly and Adao took pictures of the couple and their daughter despite the actor's request not to film his family.

After getting Connolly's film, Harrelson chased Adao. Judge William Young said: "The taking away of the camera, that's an assault. Mr Harrelson has no right to do that - no right."

"Even if Mr. Harrelson was acting in good faith to protect the interest of his daughter the law does not allow it."