There has been a lot of buzz about the picture that is reportedly of Rihanna and her injured face that surfaced yesterday.  The Los Angeles Police Department (which is investigating the alleged attack that Chris Brown committed against Rihanna) has now issued a statement about the disturbing picture.

"The photograph has the appearance of one taken during an official domestic violence investigation," says a police statement. "The Los Angeles Police Department takes seriously its duty to maintain the confidentiality of victims of domestic violence."

The LAPD said that on Thursday evening it "began receiving numerous inquiries about the release of a photograph associated with a domestic violence incident that occurred on February 8, 2009, involving entertainer Chris Brown."

There is no debate over the fact that the photo is horrible and hard to look at.  Sadly, it happens to be Rihanna’s 21st birthday today, we hope for her that she is able to find some joy on this day and hopefully the public will learn the facts and clear up the rumors about this tragic incident.