IN BRIEF : Ex-Okla. QB Charles Thompson Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Conspiracy

Former Oklahoma starting quarterback Charles Thompson pleaded guilty today to a federal charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine.

Thompson was arrested Feb. 13 after allegedly selling 17 grams of cocaine to the undercover agent Jan. 26.

Thompson, who started much of last season and was expected to be the starter for his junior year this season, was suspended from the football team by Coach Barry Switzer a few hours before his arrest.

U.S. District Judge Ralph G. Thompson delayed the athlete’s sentencing for 6 to 8 weeks, pending a probationary report. The maximum punishment for the charge is 20 years in prison and a $2-million fine, plus a special assessment fine of $50,000.

Thompson was released to the custody of his mother two days after his arrest.