HOLLYWOOD—On July 16, actor Chris Klein was arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of driving under the influence. Reports issued stated that, at the time of the arrest, he was swerving in between lanes on the 101 Freeway; he was charged with two misdemeanor DUI counts. Klein, whose rèsumèincludes starring roles in the “American Pie” films and “Election,” and who is currently voicing a character for the animated film “The Wild Bunch,” has decided to fight the charges.
On Friday, July 23, Klein entered a plea of not guilty to the two misdemeanor charges. The actor has been ordered to appear in person at his preliminary hearing, which will take place on August 23. He will also have to refrain from using drugs and alcohol during that time period. This is the actor’s second DUI charge following his 2005 arrest, at which time he pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor. Since this is his second offense, California state law requires that, if convicted, Klein spend a mandatory stay in prison of at least four days and no more than one year. A conviction also comes with a fine of up to $1,000.
Following the arrest, Klein checked himself into The Cirque Lodge, a rehabilitation center in Park City, Utah, which has provided a sober sanctuary for other Hollywood stars such as Melanie Griffith, Kirsten Dunst and Lindsay Lohan. The actor spent 30 days at the center before returning to Los Angeles to face his charges.
