Pubdate: Mon, 29 Jan 2001 Source: Associated Press Copyright: 2001 Associated Press Author: Chelsea J. Carter, Associated Press Writer JUDGE URGES LAWYERS TO REACH SETTLEMENT IN ROBERT DOWNEY DRUG CASE The judge in actor Robert Downey Jr.'s drug case encouraged attorneys Monday to try to reach a settlement prior to a hearing scheduled for next month. Downey is charged with possession of cocaine and a tranquilizer, and faces more than four years in prison if convicted. His case is being handled under a court program for expediting drug cases. Superior Court Judge B.J. Bjork commented during a brief court session in which he agreed to a defense request to postpone proceedings until Feb. 21 to allow more time for gathering and examining evidence. "Let's try to resolve it at the 21st of February, that's what the EDP calendar is for," the judge said. Police responding to an anonymous tip arrested Downey, 35, on Nov. 25 at a Palm Springs hotel. He had been released from prison in August after serving about a year for violating probation on previous drug arrests dating to 1996. Downey, who won a Golden Globe award this month for his supporting role in the TV show "Ally McBeal," was present but spoke only to say he agreed to the delay. Deputy District Attorney Tamara L. Capone said outside the court that negotiations for a plea bargain were continuing and that there was a range of options. "He is eligible for probation. He is eligible for state prison," the prosecutor said. "We're just trying to figure out what's best for Mr. Downey." Capone would not comment on the evidence against Downey. Defense attorney Daniel Brookman said he was concerned about aspects of the case and the way the arrest was handled. "I think the nature of the arrest itself has not been a typical circumstance," he said. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth