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Steelers' Bell seeks first-offender deal for pot

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell is applying for a first-offender's program on marijuana possession and driving under the influence charges, which could result in the charges being dismissed and his arrest record expunged.

Defense attorney Robert Del Greco Jr. said Bell's tentative deal, which must be approved by an Allegheny County judge on Feb. 6, would include 15 months' probation, a 60-day driver's license suspension, a drug and alcohol evaluation, group DUI therapy and court costs.

“I think Le’Veon understands and he’s accepted that he made a mistake. This is the penalty that he will pay,” Del Greco said.

Del Greco spelled out the agreement when Bell was formally arraigned on the charges Wednesday in county court.

“ARD is a very good opportunity to earn a dismissal for first-time offenders under circumstances where defense attorneys are not very optimistic of being able to prevail as a defense, and such is the case in this case,” Del Greco said.

Bell and fellow Steelers running back LeGarrette Blount were arrested Aug. 20 after a motorcycle officer smelled marijuana coming from a vehicle they were in, police said.

Blount, who has since been cut and now plays for New England, faces a preliminary hearing Dec. 10.

Del Greco said the plea deal opens up Bell, the NFL’s third-leading rusher, to sanctions by the league.

“I would expect that there would be some momentum towards a sanction, and as it stands now, it’s a two-game suspension for drunk driving related charges,” Del Greco said.

Del Greco said he doesn’t expect NFL sanctions to be issued until next season.

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