COOLIO TO ENTER REHAB AFTER GUILTY PLEA: Rapper cops to drug possession and agrees to program in exchange for staying out of jail.

      *Coolio will avoid jail time after taking a plea deal Friday on drug charges.

       The rapper pleaded guilty in Los Angeles to felony cocaine possession in a deal that requires him to spend 18 months in a drug rehabilitation program. He can request the judge dismiss his case if he successfully completes the course, according to the Associated Press.      

       The 45-year-old entertainer, born Artis Leon Ivey Jr., was arrested March 6 at Los Angeles International Airport after allegedly grabbing a screener's arm to prevent a search of his luggage.      

       As part of the plea deal, misdemeanor charges of battery and possession of a smoking device were dismissed. He's due back in court Sept. 28 for a progress report.