Like so many Lohans and Spears before him, CNN anchor Richard Quest has checked himself in to a drug-treatment facility. Quest accepted the deal to enter rehab in order avoid jail time for his arrest last Friday. According to The Guardian, CNN has issued a statement confirming that Quest had entered a "drug rehabilitation facility" on the orders of a judge. "At this time, CNN's primary concern is for his health and well being. We look forward to Richard returning to CNN International," the statement said.

Police found Quest in Central Park at 3:40 a.m. on Friday and initially stopped him for violating park curfew because the park is closed from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. However, a subsequent search revealed that he had a small bag of methamphetamine in his pocket (a fact confirmed when he told the officer, “I’ve got some meth in my pocket”). Officers also found a sex toy in his boot, and a rope around his neck that was tied around his genitals. For backstory, Gawker has all the breathless coverage. Quest was arrested and arraigned on a charge of loitering and a misdemeanor charge of possessing methamphetamine.

The reporter later agreed to undergo six months of counseling in exchange for a judge’s promise to drop the charge if the therapy is considered successful when he reports back to court in October. —Noelle Hancock

CNN presenter goes into rehab [The Guardian]
A CNN Anchor Is Charged With Drug Possession [NYT]
Kinky News Network [NYP]