Marinovich to Seek Counseling in Lieu of Drug Possession Trial

Todd Marinovich will apply for referral to a drug-counseling program at next week’s pretrial hearing, his lawyer said Tuesday.

Marinovich, charged with misdemeanor possession of cocaine, has the option of petitioning for a court-appointed diversion program designed for first-time offenders in lieu of a trial. If approved as expected, the former USC quarterback will undergo counseling for a specified period, said Gary Pohlson, Marinovich’s lawyer.

Charges against Marinovich, 21, would be dismissed upon completion of the program.

Pohlson said that Marinovich voluntarily began drug counseling in Laguna Beach after his arrest in Balboa on Jan. 20. The psychiatrist was recommended by Tom Condon, who officially became Marinovich’s agent within the last two weeks. Pohlson said he will ask the court to allow Marinovich to continue with that program.

Pohlson said the decision will be that of Orange County Probation Department officials, who will interview Marinovich to determine which program best suits him. Although most diversion programs run about six months, no timetable will be established until Marinovich is assigned a program.

“I don’t think he has a drug problem,” Pohlson said. “He understands he has made a mistake. He wants to pay whatever price he must to show he has it under control.”

Marinovich, who left USC and is training for a tryout for NFL scouts before the April draft, will not appear at Monday’s hearing.