Charges dropped against actor Randy Quaid; wife on probation after no contest plea

Felony charges dropped against actor Randy Quaid

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Randy Quaid won’t have to worry about missing any more court appearances after prosecutors dropped felony charges Wednesday against the actor.

Quaid’s wife Evi, however, will be on probation for three years after she pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor count of defrauding an innkeeper. She also will have to perform 240 hours of community service.

“This is a very fair resolution of the matter,” said attorney Robert Sanger, who represents the couple. “The Quaids are pleased with the disposition.”

The couple had been charged with defrauding an innkeeper of more than $10,000 as well as conspiracy and burglary after an invalid credit card was used at San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Arnie Tolks said an invalid card also was used at The Biltmore, a luxury resort in Santa Barbara.

Prosecutors had a strong circumstantial case against Randy Quaid, but his wife was more involved with the transactions in question so charges were dropped against the actor, Tolks said.

“He really had very little to do with the ongoing negotiations and the attempts by the hotel to get payment,” Tolks said, adding both businesses had been repaid.

Randy Quaid is best-known for supporting roles in films such as “Independence Day” and “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” He is the older brother of Dennis Quaid.

The case was filed in September and prompted a legal saga that saw the couple arrested in Texas and California.

They missed several court appearances and were briefly jailed Monday after they showed up in court two weeks after missing their last scheduled hearing.

Evi Quaid intends to work with the homeless for her community service, Sanger said.

She won’t be required to return to court unless she violates her probation.