NATION IN BRIEF : VIRGINIA : Sexual Abuse Cited by Educator in Plea

Former American University President Richard E. Berendzen pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges of making obscene telephone calls from his office. His lawyer told a Fairfax, Va., court the educator deeply regretted his actions. His psychiatrist released a statement that said the 51-year-old Berendzen had been sexually abused as a youngster. Fairfax County Judge J. Conrad Waters Jr. sentenced Berendzen to 30 days in jail on each charge. He suspended all of the jail time, provided the educator stays out of trouble for one year and continues treatment.