Amanda Bynes flees to New York to escape paparazzi

Amanda Bynes has reportedly left Los Angeles for New York City in an effort to avoid the paparazzi.

The former Nickelodeon star has been under public scrutiny after a series of run-ins with the law, including being snapped smoking from what looked like a drug pipe.

Last week, she was charged for driving with a suspended licence, after several minor accidents including an alleged hit-and-run.

Sources have claimed that Bynes is going through an emotional breakdown, though the actress has insisted that she is fine.

TMZ reports that Bynes was spotted in New York today (September 23), wandering mid-town Manhattan for several hours.

Friends of the star have said that she claims she left LA for New York because she was tired of being followed by photographers.

They also allege that Bynes says she never wants to return to LA.