Gibson Checks Into Rehab

Zap2It.com | August 1, 2006

Mel Gibson, Mugshot

Arresting officer hopes actor thinks twice about drinking and driving

After Mel Gibson's well-publicized DUI arrest and the subsequent media storm, the actor is seeking help for his drinking problem.

The Oscar-winner has checked himself into rehab for alcohol abuse and is "trying to stay alive," says spokesman Alan Neirob. No additional details about the program has been released.

In a public statement issued on Saturday (July 29), Gibson apologized for his belligerent behavior during his arrest and his condition, explaining, "I have battled with the disease of alcoholism for all of my adult life and profoundly regret my horrific relapse. [I] have already taken necessary steps to ensure my return to health."

Gibson was arrested in Malibu, Calif., early Friday. A police report details how he resisted arrest, threatened the arresting officer and used an inappropriate epithet referring to a female officer, among other erratic behaviors. One derogatory remark in particular has caused controversy with the Jewish community and has called into question how his upcoming film "Apocalypto" will be received.

"F***ing Jews. The Jews are responsible for all the wars in the world," the actor reportedly said to his arresting officer, James Mee. "Are you a Jew?"

Mee, a 17-year deputy, is in fact Jewish, but isn't taking the comments to heart.

"That stuff is booze talking ... It amplifies your basic personality," says the deputy, according to published reports. "I don't take pride in hurting Mr. Gibson. What I had hoped out of this is that he would think twice before he gets behind the wheel of a car and was drinking."

An arraignment is set for Sept. 28.

Gibson, who won the best picture and best director Oscars for 1995's "Braveheart," will release "Apocalypto," set 500 years in the past, on Dec. 8.