College football

Plea may enable Dockett to rejoin the Seminoles

Florida State defensive tackle Darnell Dockett took a big step toward returning to the team Thursday by pleading guilty to misdemeanor petty theft for his role in a shopping scam.

Tallahassee police said Dockett received $1,000 worth of sports apparel for about $100, a 90 percent discount. He was suspended for the Sugar Bowl once FSU learned of an investigation and later was charged with a third-degree felony.

As part of Thursday morning's plea bargain, Dockett will perform 30 days of community service, pay court costs and fines of $295 and serve one year of probation. The probation can be terminated, however, after six months. That is similar to the deal Peter Warrick struck in 1999 when police said he paid $21 for more than $400 worth of designer clothes at a Dillard's.

"I think, in many respects, it was a very similar case," assistant state attorney Wade White said. "That was part of the basis on which we made the decision."

"Darnell's eager to start the community service and regain the respect of the community," said Matt Willard, Dockett's Tallahassee-based attorney. "He's back on the road."

But not yet home.

"I understand that Darnell is no longer charged with a felony and by our (athletic department) policy can now participate in spring drills and games after he satisfies the conditions placed on him," coach Bobby Bowden said. "However, I am not reinstating him to the team until he satisfies the terms that I have put on him. He will not participate in spring drills."

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