Ryan O'Neal pleads guilty

2009-01-11 12:16

Malibu - Hollywood actor Ryan O'Neal on Friday pleaded guilty to drug possession and was sentenced to an 18-month rehabilitation programme, prosecutors said.

O'Neal, 67, the Oscar-nominated star of classic films such as Love Story and Paper Moon, admitted one felony count of possessing methamphetamine in a court hearing at Malibu.

If the veteran actor enrolls and successfully completes the 18-month "drug diversion programme" his case will be dismissed, officials said.

He must return to court on July 10 for a progress report.

O'Neal and his son Redmond, 23, were arrested on September 17 after sheriff's deputies discovered narcotics while conducting a probation search of O'Neal's home in connection with an earlier drugs case involving his son.

The search was carried out after Redmond O'Neal, the actor's child with actress Farrah Fawcett, pleaded guilty to felony drug possession and driving under the influence.

Redmond O'Neal's arraignment on charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia will take place on February 20.

- AFP