LeBron's mother pleads no-contest in scuffle with police
AKRON, Ohio (AP) -- The mother of Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James pleaded no contest and was found guilty on Friday of four charges after her SUV nearly hit an unmarked police vehicle and she kicked a window of a patrol car.
Gloria James, 38, of Green, pleaded no contest in Municipal Court to reckless operation, speeding, disorderly conduct and a reduced count -- originally drunken-driving -- of physical control of a motor vehicle under the influence. A fifth count of damaging police property was dismissed.
Judge Lynne Callahan suspended all but three days of a six-month jail term and said the three remaining days can be served by taking a class on the dangers of drugs and alcohol use. Her license was suspended until Jan. 20.
James also must perform 100 hours of community service, pay more than $400 in fines and costs and pay for $150 in damage to the police cruiser.
Officers said James was weaving and nearly hit their unmarked vehicle Jan. 20 with her Cadillac Escalade. When stopped, she smelled of alcohol, struggled as officers handcuffed her and kicked the window of a patrol car off its track, police said.
Her attorney, John Martin, said resolving the DUI count was key to the plea change. "Once that concession was made by the prosecutor's office, we were in a position to negotiate a resolution which was agreeable to Ms. James," he said.
