NEWSLarry Wilcox, 'CHiPs' Star, Sentenced to 3 Years Probation For Securities Fraud
Jan. 28 2011, Published 11:46 a.m. ET
Larry Wilcox, who starred in the 1970s TV series CHiPs, was sentenced on Friday to three years probation for conspiring to commit securities fraud.
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The 63-year-old star, according to The Associated Press, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge James I. Cohn and must also perform 500 hours of community service and pay a fine of $100.
"I think we got an individual who is truly remorseful," Cohn said. "He should not be punished because of his celebrity status."
Before sentencing, Larry, who played Officer Jonathan "Jon" Baker on CHiPs, tearfully addressed the court.
"I spent 63 years putting my signature on my life," he said "I betrayed my core values with what I did. I am deeply sorry."
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William Richey, Larry's attorney, said the sentence was "absolutely appropriate."
"The offense for which he pleaded guilty exists as an aberration in what has otherwise been an exemplary life," he wrote in court papers and asked the court to consider that Larry was depressed and "could barely put food on the table for his family."
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According to the Securities and Exchange commission, Larry was involved in one of several kickback operations run by more than a dozen small-company stock promoters.
Larry cooperated with federal authorities and provided information to identify two others involved in the scheme, federal prosecutors report.
"We believe his conduct substantially assisted us," U.S. Attorney Ryan O'Quinn said.
Larry recently filed for bankruptcy and pleaded guilty to securities fraud conspiracy in November.
