Marinovich’s Counseling to Continue While on Road

Todd Marinovich, the Raiders’ first choice in Sunday’s NFL draft, will be required to attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings when traveling with the team next season, Newport Harbor Municipal Court Judge Susanne S. Shaw said Wednesday as terms of a rehabilitation agreement were made final.

The agreement requires the former USC quarterback to remain in drug-abuse counseling for one year, about six months longer than usually specified in court-directed diversion programs for first-time offenders.

“He’s got himself into counseling and he’s needed to prove to the public and the NFL that his life is back on track,” said Gary Pohlson, Marinovich’s lawyer.

A misdemeanor charge of possession of cocaine against Marinovich would be dismissed upon completion of the program.

Marinovich, 21, was arrested on Jan. 20 by Newport Beach police after less than half a gram of cocaine was found in his possession.

“I hope he continues on his path to rehabilitation,” Shaw said. “I’m sure it’s more embarrassing for him than words can express. We are giving him a more intense program than is required. I did not want him to be dissuaded by other football players. We have all read about what can happen.”

Under terms of the agreement, Pohlson said Marinovich will undergo more than 100 hours of counseling. Diversion programs usually offer between 12 and 24 hours.