Mad Mel, Sentenced to Three Years on Probation

The actor/director Mel Gibson has settled all his legal problems yesterday, during a court hearing about which the press was not announced until the very last moment. The man who bragged that he 'owned' the entire Malibu (words that prompted some practical jokers to change signs around time to read 'Melibu') wasn't present in the courtroom.

However, his attorney was and, after pleading no contest on the DUI charge, he announced that the actor is already registered in a rehabilitation program as a volunteer. Superior Court Judge Lawrence Mira sentenced Gibson to three years' probation and mandatory AA meetings.

Mel is to attend the Alcoholics Anonymous for five times a week during the first four months and a half and for three times a week for the rest of his first probation year. The disorderly driver was also fined $1,300 and had his license suspended for 90 days. Also by his free will, Gibson will record a public service announcement on the dangers of driving drunk, his lawyer told the judge.

Gibson is to appear again in court on January 17 for a progress check. Further reports on the 'Mad Mel' case indicate that the Sheriff's Department is still unwilling to make the tapes and photographs taken of Gibson during his arrest public. On the same note, the Judge appointed on the case took no notice of the fact that the Deputy's report said that the actor made an attempt to flee before being cuffed.