AceShowbiz - U.S. TV host David Letterman is grateful authorities brought the man who tried to blackmail him to justice - telling viewers the case was handled "professionally, skillfully and appropriately." TV producer Robert Halderman was charged with attempted first degree grand larceny in October 2009 after reportedly threatening to expose "Late Show with David Letterman" presenter's affairs with employees unless Letterman bought his silence for $2 million.

Halderman was due to stand trial, but struck a deal with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to one count of grand larceny in the second degree. He was sentenced to six months in jail and five years probation, as well as 1,000 hours of community service, on Tuesday, March 9, and Letterman released a statement through his attorneys praising prosecutors for their hard work.

The statement reads, "When they became involved with this case, I had complete faith that a just and appropriate result was inevitable. On behalf of my family, I am extremely grateful for their tireless efforts." He also addressed the matter during his TV show that night, telling viewers, "It was handled professionally, skillfully and appropriately."