Drink-drive deal for OC actress

Barton played Marissa Cooper in TV teen drama The OC. Photo: LASD

Actress Mischa Barton has been sentenced to three years unsupervised probation after pleading no contest to drinking and driving last December.

The OC star must also complete a three-month alcohol education program and was fined $2,000 (£1,000).

Her lawyer Anthony Salverno said she "understands the seriousness of this situation" and "assumes full responsibility for her actions".

A marijuana possession charge was also dismissed as part of the plea deal.

"She and I are grateful to the court and the District Attorney's Office for the prompt and respectful resolution of the case," Mr Salverno added.

Erratic driving

Barton was arrested after police said the star was weaving between two lanes of traffic and failing to signal as she drove in West Hollywood.

She ended up spending about seven hours in jail before being released on $10,000 (£5,000) bail.

Barton played Marissa Cooper in teen drama The OC from 2003 until 2006, when her character died in a car crash.

The London-born actress has also appeared in several movies, including The Sixth Sense and St Trinian's.