National Football League

Colts owner Irsay waives initial hearing on drug charges

Published Jun. 18, 2014 12:50 p.m. ET

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Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay won't have to appear in court Thursday for an initial hearing on drug-related charges he faces.

Irsay's attorneys filed a motion Wednesday waiving his appearance on misdemeanor charges of driving while intoxicated and driving with a Schedule I or II controlled substance in his body, Hamilton County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Andre Miksha told The Associated Press.

The charges against Irsay carry maximum penalties of 60 days in jail and $500 fines for each count. County court documents say Irsay was driving under the influence of prescription painkillers.

Irsay, 54, was arrested near his home in suburban Carmel on March 16 after police say he was spotted driving slowly, stopping in the roadway and failing to use a turn signal. Police said he failed field sobriety tests and an officer believed him to be intoxicated, but not on alcohol. Various prescription drugs were found in his vehicle.

The AP left a phone message seeking comment with Irsay's attorney, Jim Voyles. The next hearing on Irsay's case is scheduled for July 28, but Miksha said Irsay is unlikely to attend. Irsay's trial is currently scheduled for Aug. 28.

Attorney Steven Stoesz, who often handles similar cases, said waivers are not uncommon in misdemeanor cases where a defendant has bonded out of jail and retained an attorney.

''The purpose of an initial hearing is for the court to advise a person of the charges they are facing, of their constitutional rights and to set future court dates,'' Stoesz told The Indianapolis Star. Retaining an attorney essentially lets the court know you are aware of your rights and the charges against you, he said.

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