CSI's Gary Dourdan "Embarrassed" By Arrest for DUI

• May 4, 2008 02:24 AM ET
• by TV Guide News

Gary Dourdan on Saturday acknowledged regret over his recent arrest in Palm Springs. In his statement to People the former CSI star says, "Obviously I am embarrassed to find myself in this situation, and I am profoundly grateful to everyone for their support."

Earlier Saturday, AccessHollywood.com posted a personal email Dourdan purportedly sent in which he lamented the situation, insisted on his innocence and apologized to fans. Dourdan had been at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival prior to his arrest. "The after party, it ran me ragged," he explains, "but I'm glad pulling over did prevent a DUI. I recommend not driving at all, but a little [nap] is always good."

Dourdan continued, "I am blessed that the [sergeant] realized that the luggage carrying whatever [drugs] they found was not mine and that my tests have been coming back negative." The actor also apologized to fans, "especially the young ones, like Taylor Swift." (Dourdan was slated to present an award to the country-music starlet at last weekend's Young Hollywood Awards.)

Last week, the CSI star was found asleep in his car on the wrong side of the road, and subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession of heroin, cocaine, prescription drugs and ecstasy. He was released on $5,000 bail, and has an arraignment scheduled for later in May. As Ausiello reported, the incident followed news that the actor would not be returning to CSI next season. In the meantime, what will become of Dourdan? Is he a man in need of help, or simply burning the candle at both ends? Perhaps, it seems, a little bit of both. - Anna Dimond

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