State rules Bobby Brown borderline

Life keeps going from bad to worse for notorious R&B singer and reality television star Bobby Brown.

A Massachusetts' judge has ordered Brown be arrested if he steps foot inside the state's border, People magazine reported.

The ruling came after Brown failed to appear for a hearing regarding his delinquent child-support payments to Kim Ward, the mother of two of his children. The outstanding payments are estimated to be at US$11,000 (NZ$16,700).

Brown's lawyer Phaedra Parks tried to explain the singer's absence, saying it was a very difficult time for him.

"The media is very aware of this very public divorce that's going on right now," she said.

Judge Paula Carey had no time for excuses though, replying: "Whether or not he's going through a divorce doesn't negate the fact that he still owes child support."

37-year-old Brown separated from his wife of 14 years, singer Whitney Houston, earlier this year. The couple, known for their tempestuous relationship, announced their impending divorce last month, reported People.

At the time Brown told the magazine, "I'm really saddened by the whole situation."

- NZHERALD STAFF