30 Rock actor, Rip Torn gets drunk-driving charges dismissed

[HMG] – In what may provide some proof of judicial balance after the legalized travesty of Lindsay Lohan’s last spell in court, it’s been confirmed that ’30 Rock’ actor, Rip Torn has had his drunk-driving charges dismissed.

The 79-year old Texan was arrested on December 14th of 2008 near his home in Salisbury, Connecticut. Police said he was driving in the breakdown lane while clearly intoxicated, and with a Christmas tree tied to the roof of his car.

Rip was ordered to complete an alcohol education program, and with proof of that being done now on file Judge Cara Eschuck has dismissed the charges.

The News says local laws give those charged with minor offenses the chance to clear their record if they show some intent to reform. Rip did, so he’s now in the clear.

But the charges regarding Rip’s other arrest on January 29 for breaking into a Bancorp branch office near his home are still pending; Connecticut State Police say Rip broke into the bank thinking it was his house.

The actor appeared in court on February 1 to deal with that case, and his attorney, A. Thomas Waterfall told the judge that Rip needed help with alcohol abuse. Rip was then released on $100,000 bail and faces a Judge over the incident sometime today.

We’ll keep you advised…