pounds 500 fine and community service for George Michael
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.GEORGE MICHAEL was fined $810 (about pounds 500) yesterday and ordered to perform 80 hours community service after the singer's lawyer entered a plea of no contest to a charge alleging he committed a lewd act in a Los Angeles park toilet. Michael did not appear at Beverly Hills Municipal Court.
Judge Charles Rubin banned Michael from Will Rogers State Park, where the singer was arrested last month. He also ordered Michael to undergo psychological counselling.
"The court is concerned he not get into this situation again," Mr Rubin said.
Michael, 34, was arrested on 7 April when an undercover police officer allegedly saw him commit a lewd act alone in a toilet at the park, which is across the street from the Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard.
He acknowledged later that he is gay and said he was embarrassed by the arrest.
He told CNN: "I won't even say it's the first time it's happened."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments