‘Creek’ star gets plea bargain

“Dawson’s Creek” co-star Joshua Jackson was accepted into a North Carolina alcohol education program after his arrest at a hockey game.

Jackson was placed in the program Wednesday after admitting he was drunk and disruptive at a Nov. 9 Carolina Hurricanes game. The 24-year-old plays Pacey on the WB television drama, which has been filmed mostly in Wilmington, N.C., during its six-year run. The series’ two-hour finale airs May 14.

Jackson originally was charged with being drunk and disruptive by fighting and simple assault for allegedly grabbing a security guard around the neck and striking him. Prosecutors agreed to dismiss the simple assault charge and amend the drunk and disruptive charge by omitting the fighting allegation.

As part of the program, Jackson must attend 15 hours of alcohol and substance abuse education, which costs $150, and complete 24 hours of community service. He also must remain employed and not be convicted of any misdemeanor or felony charges while in the program.