Britney manager ordered to stay away

By Sima Kotecha
US reporter, Radio 1

Britney's mum says the star met Sam Lufti in October 2007

A court in Los Angeles has released details of a restraining order against the manager of Britney Spears.

It is based on six pages of evidence given by the star's mother, Lynne Spears.

She claims manager Sam Lufti, 33, took control of the singer's money and home and controlled the paparazzi "like a general".

It is also said he shouted at Britney and cut her phone lines so she couldn't make any calls.

'Britney in tears'

Lufti was at Britney's side during her downward spiral from pop princess to her current status as a patient in a hospital psychiatric ward.

Lynne Spears claims the two met in October 2007 and she gives an account of one night at Britney's home when it is claimed the star was led around by her manager who was setting up pictures for the paparazzi even as she was going out of control.

The night reportedly ended with Britney in tears.

Lufti has now been told by the court to stay away from Britney.

Court battle

In a statement he said: "I have no problems with anyone writing anything negative against me.

"My image is not of concern, hers is."

Britney Spears has been in a court battle with ex-husband Kevin Federline over custody of their two children, Jayden James, one, and two-year-old Sean Preston.

She lost visitation rights last month.

Her personal and financial affairs are now under the control of her father.

She was taken to hospital last week where she is currently being treated.