March 10, 2010

NEW YORK (AP) -- David Letterman is thanking authorities for their efforts in prosecuting the former CBS producer who tried to shake him down.

During his show last night, Letterman said he was "full of anxiety and nervous and worried" when he first went to prosecutors. But he says they handled the case professionally and skillfully.

Letterman mentioned several prosecutors by name and thanked the NYPD on the air.

Joe Halderman pleaded guilty yesterday to attempted grand larceny, acknowledging he tried to chisel $2 million from the TV show host. He threatened to publicize Letterman's workplace dalliances.

The plea deal spares Halderman a potential 15 years in prison. He's to get a six-month jail sentence and 1,000 hours of community service.

The deal also spares Letterman the prospect of a public trial.

Halderman apologized to the host of the "Late Show" as he spelled out the details of his crime in a Manhattan court.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)