Reality show model denies punching ex-boyfriend

NEW YORK -- A model who appears on Bravo's reality show "The Real Housewives of New York City" denies charges that she punched an ex-boyfriend in the face.

Kelly Killoren Bensimon was arrested in Manhattan last week on a misdemeanor assault charge.

Her ex-boyfriend Nicholas Stefanov told police that he suffered a gash below his eye. Killoren Bensimon turned herself in Thursday, two days after the alleged incident.

Her lawyer, Stephen Turano, calls Stefanov "a jilted lover" and says she denies the allegations.

Stefanov told the Daily News that he still loves Killoren Bensimon. He said the pressure of being on the reality show caused her to snap and punch him during an argument.

Killoren Bensimon is due back in court March 31.