Willie Nelson pleads in pot bust, no jail, says report

(CBS) - Country icon Willie Nelson can get back on the road again if he wants to, after he avoided jail time for a pot bust last year, reports TMZ.

The website says Nelson pleaded no contest in exchange for a reduced charge of possession of drug paraphernalia, and a $500 fine.

Reportedly the charge will be dropped from Nelson's criminal record if he stays out of trouble for 30 days.

Nelson was originally charged with marijuana possession after 6 ounces was found aboard his tour bus last Nov. 26 at a checkpoint in Sierra Blanca, Texas, according to the U.S. Border Patrol. A spokesperson says an officer smelled pot when a door was opened and a search turned up marijuana.

The prosecutor had previously suggested that Nelson resolve the charges by pleading guilty, paying a fine and singing "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" for the court. Texas Judge Becky Dean-Walker vetoed the offer in March telling the Associated Press that she thinks it was a joke "and it got out of hand."

Nelson's lawyer told TMZ , "Willie is glad to have it all behind him. Everyone was very fair."

More on Crimesider

Nov. 29, 2010 - Willie Nelson Mug Shot: Country Legend Charged with Pot Possession

Nov. 29, 2010 - Willie Nelson Arrested, Charged with Pot Possession