SETTLEMENT IS URGED IN DOWNEY DRUG CASE

The judge in actor Robert Downey Jr.'s drug case has encouraged attorneys
to try to reach a settlement prior to a hearing scheduled for next month.
Downey is charged with possession of cocaine and a tranquilizer and faces
more than four years in prison if convicted. His case is being handled
under a court program for expediting drug cases.

During a brief hearing Monday, Superior Court Judge B.J. Bjork agreed to a
defense request to postpone proceedings until Feb. 21 to allow more time
for gathering and examining evidence.