Randy Travis Pleads Guilty to Drunken Driving

Country music star Randy Travis appeared in a North Texas court on Thursday and pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated.

The hearing in state district court in Sherman ended a drunken driving case that began last summer, when Travis was accused of crashing his car while driving naked. State troopers said Travis was belligerent during his arrest.

As part of the plea agreement, Travis was sentenced to 180 days in jail, probation for two years and a $2,00 fine. He must also stay in an in-patient alcohol treatment facility for at least 30 days and complete 100 hours of community service. During his probation, Travis is required to have an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he drives.

The Class A misdemeanor charge was punishable by up to two years in jail and a $4,000 fine.

Grayson County District Attorney Joe Brown said prosecutors feel the sentence is appropriate.

"His punishment is considerably more than is typically received on a DWI case," he said.

First-time DWI offenders are rarely forced into in-patient treatment, Brown said. Travis' fine and community service is more than double what offenders usually receive, he said. His probation is longer than the usual 18 months and is the maximum available, he said.

"All of that is appropriate in light of his behavior with the officers," Brown said. "I spoke at length with the officers involved, and they were in agreement with the outcome. We are all hopeful that Mr. Travis is on the road recovery."

Travis had also faced a third-degree felony charge of retaliation in connection alleged threats to state troopers during his Aug. 7 arrest but will not be charged as part of his plea agreement.

Travis said had met with the two arresting troopers Thursday and said he is grateful they took care of him during his arrest.

He also thanked fans for their concern and words of encouragement.

"I'm glad it's behind me, and I'm looking forward to getting on with the year and playing some music," Travis said.

NBC 5's Catherine Ross contributed to this report.

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