Snoop Dogg Guilty, Gets Probation on Weapons Charge

In addition to the dangerous, hardened criminals such as Michael Vick and O.J. Simpson, we also cover news related to petty crooks such as Snoop Dogg.

But the Doggfather is "make music, not court appearances," his lawyer said after the rapper pleaded guilty to felony possession of a deadly weapon Thursday.

A somber-looking Snoop (real name Calvin Broadus), wearing a gray sweater and slacks, was given three years probation and 160 hours of community service, after the rapper was arrested last September trying to board a plane with a 20-inch collapsible baton in a computer bag.

These things happen when you're Snoop Dogg.

Snoop initially pleaded not guilty, saying the weapon was only a movie prop.

But "this was an expedient way to end the case," Snoop's attorney, Donald Etra, said.

However, Orange County, Calif., Judge Erick L. Larsh ruled that the rapper cannot serve those hours in any capacity "involving children, gangs or football (due to his existing involvement in his sons' sports league)."

Snoop Dogg, 35, who is giving Pete Doherty a run for his money in the race for most celebrity arrests in 2007, also agreed to make a $10,000 donation to Right Trak, an Orange County anti-gang program.

The rap (sheet) star narrowly avoided prison in April by pleading no contest in a Pasadena, Calif., court to gun possession and sale or transportation of marijuana. He was given five years probation in that case.