Rapper Coolio reaches plea deal in drug case
LOS ANGELES --Rapper Coolio has pleaded guilty in Los Angeles to felony cocaine possession in a deal that requires him to spend 18 months in rehab.
District attorney spokeswoman Jane Robison says the 45-year-old rapper, whose real name is Artis Leon Ivey, entered his plea Friday in Superior Court.
Coolio was arrested March 6 at Los Angeles International Airport. He allegedly grabbed a screener's arm to prevent a search of his luggage.
As part of the plea deal, misdemeanor charges of battery and possession of a smoking device were dismissed.
A judge ordered Coolio to enter an 18-month drug rehabilitation program. He can request the judge dismiss his case if he successfully completes the program.
He's due back in court Sept. 28 for a report on his progress. 