/ 19 April 2008

CNN’s Richard Quest arrested for drugs in New York

A New York judge ordered CNN reporter Richard Quest to undergo six months of counselling on Friday after Quest was arrested in Central Park for possession of a controlled substance, his lawyer said.

The British reporter is known for his boisterous and quirky style, especially on CNN International.

He was arrested at 3.40am local time on Friday in New York’s Central Park for being in the park after a 1am curfew.

Police discovered a plastic bag containing what was believed to be methamphetamine in his pocket, police spokesperson John Grimphel said.

Quest (46) later appeared before State Court Judge Anthony Ferrara, who told him the case would be dismissed if he attends counselling, Quest’s lawyer, Alan Abramson said.

”Mr Quest did not realise that the park had a curfew and was returning to his hotel with friends. The matter is scheduled to be dismissed,” Abramson said.

Quest is a well-known business news reporter on CNN International and hosts CNN Business Traveller, as well as his own feature programme, Quest. — Reuters