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Paul Vercammen: Why Robert Downey Jr.'s attorneys sought a court delay

Paul Vercammen

CNN Correspondent Paul Vercammen has been following award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr.'s latest drug case through the court system.

Q: Why did Downey's attorneys seek a delay until late February?

VERCAMMEN: Clearly, Downey's attorneys have a problem with the way he was arrested. (Police received an anonymous 911 tip.) His lawyers repeatedly called it less than normal procedures. There also have been suggestions from his camp that perhaps he was set up by someone who could be a key witness in this case.

They also want more time to examine the evidence. In particular, they want to test the drugs that police allegedly found in Downey's Palm Springs, California, hotel room. There also seem to be questions hanging in the air over the possession of Valium charge. Downey's attorney would not comment on whether Downey had a prescription for Valium, but it seems this could become an issue.

Also, it should be noted that this is not an acrimonious situation. Both his lawyers and the prosecution confirm they've been talking to each other about a possible plea bargain or deal. Both sides say they hope one can be reached and the prosecutor of the case says she believes there will be some sort of negotiated settlement.

ALSO Actor Downey's drug case continued until February 21

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Q: Is Downey receiving special treatment?

VERCAMMEN: The prosecutor said they are treating Downey just as any other person charged with a drug crime; they try to do what's in the best interest of the accused and the people of California.

In talking with prosecutors in other counties, they say Downey is considered a functioning drug addict. And while he has done prison time and seems to have a serious addiction problem, he and his arrest record pale dramatically in comparison to serious, chronic abusers who can be in and out of court five to 10 times in a given year, all on different charges.

Q: How has this affected his career?

VERCAMMEN: His career has been jump-started. He recently won a Golden Globe for his supporting role in "Ally McBeal" and is credited with bringing new flair to the show, boosting its ratings and adding prestige because of the award.

He's also a key player in one of most highly acclaimed, highly awarded movies of the year 2000, "Wonder Boys," where he plays a quirky book editor opposite famed actor Michael Douglas and respected actress Frances McDormand.

So some of the most powerful people in Hollywood are showing their support for Downey, including the normally reluctant to speak about anything Sean Penn, who told me that he is deeply concerned for and greatly cares about Downey. Penn said Downey's a poster child for the fact that putting someone in prison does not help cure drug addiction.

What's more, Mel Gibson told me he wants to still direct Downey in a live theater version of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" in Los Angeles. Gibson said he doesn't want anyone to star in the play except Downey. He said, "I pray for him. I'm sure he prays for himself. And he has a good heart."

Gibson added he doesn't think Downey should go to prison.

A-list director Curtis Hanson, director of the movie "L.A. Confidential" and "Wonder Boys," also said he doesn't think locking up someone like Downey is a solution.

Robert Downey Jr. free after pleading not guilty in drug case
December 27, 2000

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