British rocker Pete Doherty ordered to undergo drug rehabilitation

Feb 8, 2006, 15:12 GMT

London - British rockstar Pete Doherty, who has a history of drug-taking, was Wednesday placed under a 12-month 'community order' by a court in London, requiring him to change his behaviour while taking part in a drug rehabilitation programme.

The 26-year-old singer of the group Babyshambles, and former boyfriend of top model Kate Moss, had earlier pleaded guilty to seven charges of possessing illegal substances.

The judge at Ealing Magistrate's Court in south London warned the singer that, if he breached this order, he could face a custodial sentence.

Under British law, a 'community sentence' is given to 'encourage the offender to deal with any problems that might be making them commit crimes.'

If the conditions are breached, conventional punishment will follow. Offenders can also be ordered to do 'unpaid community work' or participate in any 'specified activities.'

Judge Ann McLaughlin told Doherty: 'The court can revoke the order and sentence you in a different way. This could include sending you to prison.'

Doherty's defence lawyer, Sean Curran, had argued earlier that his client was 'only a harm to himself.'

'He is happiest when he is playing the guitar for others', said Curran.

'The easy option is to pass a custodial sentence because it will punish him in the short term, but it will leave him vulnerable and open to drug abuse', said Curran.

Doherty will have to join a drugs rehabilitation programme and have a drugs test every month. The judge ordered the destruction of all drugs - heroin and cocaine - found on the singer and ordered him to pay 129 pounds (228 dollars) towards the prosecution's cost.

Fellow Babyshambles member Adam Ficek said he was 'thrilled' with the verdict. 'We can't wait to see Pete and make plans for the rest of the year', added Ficek.