June 17, 2006 15:29

Warrant for Boy George's arrest issued

After the singer fails to appear in court

A judge in New York yesterday (June 16) issued a warrant for the arrest of Boy George after the singer failed to appear in court to explain why he wants to change his sentence for falsely reporting a burglary in October last year.

Judge Anthony Ferrara criticised the singer for failing to pay the $1000 (£450) fine or start the community service.

He also ridiculed the singer's suggestions for serving community service, which included a fashion and make-up workshop.

But Ferrara said he would not order an arrest until a June 26 hearing on whether Boy George violated the terms of his sentence.

A lawyer for the former Culture Club star said his client was just attempting to arrange something more worthwhile than sweeping the streets of Manhattan, BBC News reports.

Ferrara said the singer: "Doesn't serve himself well by not paying the fine (as) we know he has the means."

As previously reported by NME.COM the singer- real name George O'Dowd- pleaded guilty in March to false reporting of a burglary at his Manhattan apartment, where police found cocaine.

The charges for cocaine possession were dropped.