Thursday, August 28, 2014

Accused Philip Seymour Hoffman drug dealer dodges jail time



Philip Seymour Hoffman‘s accused heroin dealer copped a plea deal Thursday that will keep him in a drug treatment program — and out of jail.


Robert Vineberg, 58, pleaded guilty to drug possession charges in exchange for 25 days community service and five years probation.


The jazz musician, who wore a suit and sported a fresh haircut to his Manhattan Supreme Court appearance, will also continue attending a drug treatment program and must forfeit $ 1,284.


Prosecutors dropped two higher counts of possession of drugs with intent to sell after considering “evidentiary issues.”


Vineberg could have faced up to 25 years behind bars, if convicted.


“It’s wonderful. It’s all behind me. It’s all over,” a smiling Vineberg said after his appearance. “Drugs are not what I live for.”


But he added, “The worst part is I still lost a friend,” referring to Hoffman.



Robert VinebergPhoto: Steven Hirsch



Vineberg, who was arrested after cops raided his Mott Street apartment, was accused of dealing the Oscar-winning actor the heroin that killed him last February.


He previously told The Post in an exclusive interview that he never sold the talented actor the fatal batch and said they were close friends who would help keep each other clean.


Vineberg, who’s battled heroin addiction all his life, said he plans on keeping off drugs.


He will play the saxophone and keyboard with his blues band Adventures in Bluesland at B.B. King’s club Thursday night.


“It’s a celebratory occasion,” he said smiling.


Vineberg will be sentenced Oct. 14. Judge Edward McLaughlin warned the musician he could face up to eight years in jail if he doesn’t abide by the terms of his plea agreement.





Yahoo Local News – New York Post




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