DOWNEY GETS DELAY IN DRUG TRIAL

Robert Downey Jr.'s lawyers Monday won a delay in the actor's trial for
felony drug possession so that the defense can test the evidence found in
his possession and see if it is cocaine.

Downey, who appeared during the brief hearing in Indio, Calif., is due back
in court Feb. 21.

Superior Court Judge B.J. Bjork told lawyers he hoped they could reach a
plea agreement before then.

"He is eligible for probation. He is eligible for state prison," Deputy
District Attorney Tamara L. Capone said outside court. "We're just trying
to figure out what's best for Mr. Downey."

Downey faces a maximum term of four years and eight months in prison.

He was arrested Nov. 25 in the California desert resort of Palm Springs,
just three months after his release from prison.