Accused Cusack stalker accepts plea deal

Woman sentenced to five years’ probation and psychiatric counseling

AP	Emily Leatherman accepted a plea deal in John Cusack stalking case.

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updated 4:05 p.m. ET Oct. 10, 2008

LOS ANGELES - A woman accused of stalking John Cusack has accepted a plea deal that will let her avoid state prison.

Emily Leatherman pleaded no contest Friday in Los Angeles to a felony count of stalking Cusack. A judge immediately sentenced her to five years’ probation and mandatory psychiatric counseling. The judge ordered her to stay away from the actor, his home and business for the next 10 years.

Leatherman, 33, was arrested outside Cusack’s home in March.

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In a rambling statement Friday, Leatherman claimed she was the victim of sex crimes and thought Cusack could help her.

Cusack wasn’t in court, but prosecutors read a statement from him that stated the actor had never met Leatherman but hoped she received proper psychiatric help.