Downey Pleads No Contest to Drug Charges
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Actor Robert Downey Jr. pleaded no contest Wednesday to four felony drug and weapons counts.
The 31-year-old actor, who was arrested three times within a month, pleaded no contest to possession of cocaine, driving under the influence, possession of a concealed weapon and possession of heroin. An additional cocaine possession charge was dropped. Downey will be sentenced by Malibu Municipal Court Judge Lawrence Mira on Nov. 6.
A no contest plea means Downey does not admit guilt but it carries the same weight in court as a guilty plea.
Downey, nominated for an Academy Award for his role in the 1992 movie “Chaplin,” appeared in court in a dark suit, white shirt and a tie.
When asked by the court if he was aware that a no contest plea was the same as a guilty plea, Downey replied: “I certainly am.”
The actor remains free on bail but must continue to attend a drug rehabilitation center and must register with the police as a drug offender.
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