LT Checks Into Rehab Center

Retired Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor has checked into a drug rehabilitation center, according to his lawyer.

"My understanding is that Lawrence checked himself in on Monday," attorney Thomas Melani told The New York Times.

Taylor was arrested last week on crack-cocaine charges for the second time in three years, but he had been denying any involvement with drugs.

According to Melani, Taylor said goodbye to people close to him on Monday morning and expected to be at the clinic for 30 to 60 days.

The lawyer would not identify the facility other than to say it is in New Jersey. Taylor lives in the state.

Melani saw Taylor's latest move as a positive sign. "Any time a drug addict gets positive reinforcement, it's a good thing. I think he had to do it and I'm glad he did it," the lawyer said.

Taylor's latest arrest was on Oct. 19 in a St. Pete Beach, Fla., motel room, where police said he tried to buy $50 worth of crack cocaine from an undercover officer. According to police, there were 15 crack pipes inside the room. Taylor insisted he was set up by police.

Two years ago, Taylor was arrested in Myrtle Beach, S.C., where police said he tried to buy $100 worth of fake crack cocaine from an undercover officer.

Taylor

Lawrence Taylor could be in rehab for up to two months. (AP)

The former linebacker faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine, but he was expected to receive probation because he cooperated with federal prosecutors.

Taylor apparently was told by federal prosecutors his latest arrest could mean a violation of the plea agreement and if he did not receive immediate drug counseling, he likely would face jail time, the Times said.

Taylor has been in drug rehab several times, both while he was playing and after his retirement in 1993.

His All-Pro career was marred by an NFL suspension for violating the league's drug abuse policy.

NEW YORK