George Michael pleads guilty to driving under drug influence

London: Popstar George Michael today pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of cannabis. The 47-year-old was arrested on 4 July in North London, after he crashed his car into a branch of photographic shop Snappy Snaps and was on police bail following the crash.

The former `Wham` star, whose real name is Georgios Panayiotou, also admitted possessing cannabis cigarettes for his own use, reported BBC online. Highbury Corner magistrates` court heard a police patrol found him slumped at the wheel of his car in the early hours of July 4. The engine of the car was still running and when police roused him he attempted to put it back in gear. The incident was the seventh time the `Careless Whispers` singer has been investigated by police for his driving. Police suspected Michael had taken drugs as he appeared "spaced out", was sweating profusely and had dilated pupils. The star was arrested and taken to Hampstead police station where he was found to be carrying cannabis cigarettes. A blood sample was taken and chemicals linked to cannabis were found in his system. He had not been drinking alcohol. The popstar, who lives in nearby Highgate, was released on bail and charged on August 12 at Camden police station. The star spoke only to plead guilty and confirm his personal details during the 15 minute hearing and will be sentenced at a later date after the court considers the progress of a community order imposed in 2007. Sporting a greying goatee beard and dressed in a black suit over a black sweater, the singer took off his trademark dark glasses as he sat in the dock. PTI