Rodman Settles Up With Newport

Former basketball star Dennis Rodman agreed Thursday to pay $1,500 to settle noise violation charges stemming from his raucous 40th birthday party--a celebration that Newport Beach police said involved more than 300 guests, a rock band and a helicopter.

In a deal with prosecutors, Rodman admitted guilt to four misdemeanor charges, three of which involved citations for noise violations and an unrelated speeding ticket Rodman got while piloting his motorboat. Rodman, who did not appear for the settlement hearing Thursday, must pay $500 in court costs and $1,000 in restitution to the Police Department. The speeding infraction cost him an additional $200.

Police--who have responded to more than 80 noise complaints at Rodman’s home in the last several years--said they were happy Rodman pleaded guilty and noted that the former Laker player appears to be partying less flamboyantly these days. The last time police were called to his house was Sept. 5.

“We’re not having as many responses to his house as in the past, and we hope that continues,” Sgt. Steve Shulman said.

More than 30 officers, some in riot gear, were called to shut down Rodman’s May 12 party at his home on Seashore Drive. Shulman said the incident cost the department more than $2,000.

Rodman got the speeding ticket Aug. 3 for driving his boat more than 20 mph in a 5-mph zone.

Rodman had faced stiff penalties for the noise infractions--up to 18 months in jail and a $3,000 fine--and the episode even prompted the city of Newport Beach to tighten its noise ordinance.

On Thursday, both the prosecution and the defense said the agreement was fair.

Defense attorney Paul S. Meyer initially complained that police and prosecutors singled out Rodman for punishment because he was a celebrity, but said the matter has been set straight.

“The courts have now treated Dennis Rodman the same as any other resident,” Meyer said. “The judge made the right call.”

Added Deputy Dist. Atty. Michael Fell: “I’m pleased Mr. Rodman took responsibility and pleaded guilty to these criminal charges,” he said.