Reality TV star Tila tequila has filed suit against her ex-boyfriend Shawne Merriman over allegations he attacked her in September.

Cops were called to the California home of San Diego Chargers star Merriman after Tequila dialled 911 and claimed she had been choked and prevented from leaving the property by the sports star.

Merriman was taken into custody accused of battery and false imprisonment but he denied attacking his lover, insisting he prevented her returning home as she was "inebriated" and he didn't want her to travel alone.

Police subsequently freed Merriman and the District Attorney ruled there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the case.

The news left the internet pin-up fuming and she has now taken her complaint to the civil courts, filing a lawsuit accusing the footballer of assault, battery, false imprisonment and emotional distress.

The suit also includes photo evidence of bruises which Tequila claims were inflicted by Merriman during the incident, according to TMZ.com.

The star - real name Tila Nguyen - is seeking unspecified damages.