Manhattan federal Judge Richard Berman made the decision after Mexican immigrant Eduardo Escalera turned down guilty plea to illegal re-entry into the U.S.
- February 25, 2011
AceShowbiz - A man accused of supplying Michael Douglas' jailed son with drugs has been ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation after rejecting a plea deal. Cameron Douglas is serving a five year sentence in New York after admitting to charges of methamphetamine possession with intent to distribute, and one count of cocaine possession, stemming from his arrest in 2009.
The incarcerated actor's alleged suppliers, illegal Mexican immigrants David and Eduardo Escalera, both face life in prison for reportedly providing "large amounts" of methamphetamine to Douglas and others. The brothers have been offered plea deals, with prosecutors agreeing to drop the drug charges against them if they pleaded guilty to illegal re-entry into the U.S., which carries a recommended sentence of between 35 and 51 months.
But Eduardo has turned down the offer, prompting Manhattan federal Judge Richard Berman to demand he seek professional mental help during a court hearing on Wednesday, February 23. Eduardo's lawyer James Cohen told the court his client is "in denial", according to the New York Post.
If the Escaleras take the plea deal, it would mean 32-year-old Cameron Douglas would not be required to testify against his alleged dealers, coming face-to-face with the men for the first time since he agreed to co-operate with prosecutors.
