[an error occurred while processing this directive]
BBC News
watch One-Minute World News
Last Updated: Monday, 29 September, 2003, 14:48 GMT 15:48 UK
Libertines singer's sentence cut
The Libertines' Carl Barat (left) and Pete Doherty
Pete Doherty (right) had admitted burgling Carl Barat (left)
Libertines singer Pete Doherty has had his six-month jail sentence for burglary cut to two months on appeal.

Doherty had been imprisoned for breaking into a bandmate's home out of "spite" after being dumped from the band.

On Monday his sentence was reduced at a hearing at Middlesex Guildhall Crown Court in London.

The cut will mean the singer will be released from prison "almost immediately".

Doherty had pleaded guilty to burglary at an earlier hearing at Horseferry Road Magistrates' Court in London.

According to NME.com, Richard Locke, defending, told the appeal hearing the burglary was an "impulsive and unplanned" act motivated by "feelings of anger and betrayal by his closest friend".

He told the court: "He is a 24-year-old who had suddenly come into a bit of fame and a bit of money and clearly has a drug habit.

The Libertines
The band's most recent single just missed the top 10



Doherty, who was not present at the 20-minute hearing, has already served three weeks and should only have to spend a further week in jail once time off for good behaviour is taken into consideration, NME said.

Doherty had broken into a flat owned by fellow singer Carl Barat in July after being asked to leave the group because of his heroin and crack addiction.

He had kicked down the door and stolen items including an antique guitar, laptop computer, video recorder, CD player, mouth organ and books.

A Libertines spokesman said it was hoped that Doherty and Barat would "get together" following Doherty's release.

Libertines singer sent to prison
08 Sep 03  |  Entertainment
New bands race for rock stardom
22 Oct 02  |  Entertainment
Oasis and Coldplay share awards
13 Feb 03  |  Entertainment


The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites


Americas Africa Europe Middle East South Asia Asia Pacific