Bruno Mars' became a forefront figure in the music industry the minute his popular songs like "Grenade" and "Just the Way You Are" hit the airwaves. But his honest and wholesome image soon became tainted when media outlets exposed his recent cocaine bust last September 2010 in a public restroom at the popular Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel. Since then, not much has been disclosed about Mars' legal woes-until now.
The Associated Press reports that the singer recently accepted a plea deal. Mars, whose real name is Peter Hernandez, pled guilty last month to a felony cocaine charge. Escaping any jail time, a Clark County District Court Judge instead handed Mars probation as well as a $2,000 fine, 200 hours of community service and drug counseling.
Mars is expected to return to court January 2012 once his probation is completed.
The public came to know Mars' initially when he collaborated with Travie McCoy on the popular hit "Nothin' on You." His fame continued to skyrocket when he won best male pop vocal at last year's Grammy Awards.
He is expected to tour with Janelle Monáe, co-headlining the "Hooligans in Wondaland Tour" due to start this upcoming May.
Dangers of Las Vegas Drug Charges, Superstar's Possession Bust Serves as Public Reminder
Mars' drug bust served as a stark reminder to the public about just how serious drug charges can be. Las Vegas is a place known for 24/7 partying. In many cases, this includes tremendous alcohol consumption and the use of drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs. As for Mars, the popular celebrity was able to escape jail time, but an average layperson facing drug possession or drug charges might not be so lucky-especially in Las Vegas.
If you or someone you know has been charged with drug possession, distribution, manufacture or even possession of illegal paraphernalia, it's important to obtain the skills of only an experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorney. A lawyer knowledgeable in this area can help mitigate potential jail time, court fines and indirect consequences that stem from the charges.
