Mel Gibson gets probation for drunk-driving

MALIBU, California - Actor Mel Gibson has been sentenced to three years on probation after he pleaded no contest to a drunk-driving charge in an incident that made world headlines for his anti-Semitic tirade.

Gibson was pulled over by Los Angeles County sheriffs deputies last month while speeding in the seaside enclave of Malibu.

The actor's attorney entered the plea on his behalf before Malibu Superior Court Judge Lawrence Mira in an agreement with prosecutors that keeps the star out of jail, said Deputy District Attorney Gina Satriano.

Gibson did not appear in court for the proceedings.

Under terms of the plea deal, Mira ordered the 50-year-old actor to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings five times a week for 4-1/2 months and three AA meetings per week for the remaining 7-1/2 months. Gibson also was ordered to enroll in an alcohol abuse programme for three months and was fined US$1,300.

In addition, the star volunteered to make a public service announcement on the hazards of drinking and driving and volunteered to immediately enter rehab, Satriano said.

Gibson's comments the night of his arrest prompted an outcry from Jewish groups and many leading members of the entertainment industry.

- REUTERS