Former ESPN personality Jay Mariotti pleads no contest in stalking case
(CBS/AP) LOS ANGELES - Jay Mariotti, a former ESPN sports personality, has pleaded no contest in Los Angeles to charges that he stalked and assaulted his ex-girlfriend.
Deputy District Attorney Simone Shay says Mariotti entered open pleas Tuesday on three felony charges, which included stalking and two misdemeanors.
The former Chicago Sun-Times columnist was immediately sentenced to five years of probation and 90 days of community service.
Shay says an open plea means prosecutors did not offer Mariotti a plea deal.
The 51-year-old was accused of attacking his former girlfriend around midnight April 15 outside a Venice restaurant and pulling out a chunk of her hair. He is accused of confronting her again Sept. 30.
Mariotti has another court date Oct. 3 to provide proof that he has enrolled in a year-long domestic violence course.
More on Crimesider
September 14, 2010 - Jay Mariotti, ESPN Commentator, Charged in Domestic Violence Case
August 23, 2010 - ESPN Commentator Jay Mariotti Arrested for Alleged Violence Against Girlfriend