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.
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