US rapper Busta Rhymes pleaded guilty Wednesday and was sentenced to three years of probation and 10 days of community service for assaulting his former driver and beating up a fan, according to media reports yesterday.

Rhymes, whose real name is Trevor Smith, also must pay a US$1,250 fine, plus court costs, for driving while intoxicated and with a suspended license.

The 35-year-old rapper pleaded guilty to the charges -- related to four separate incidents -- in Manhattan Criminal Court on the day he was set to stand trial.

Judge Larry Stephen revoked Rhymes' driver's license for six months and signed an order of protection directing him to stay away from his former driver. He must enroll in a DWI program, too.

"I just want to say that I'm very grateful to the judge, and I'm very grateful to the system. I believe in the system," Rhymes said as he left court.

Rhymes is due back in court for formal sentencing on March 18.

Known for his eye-catching outfits and an antic performance style, Rhymes' hits include "Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See," "Dangerous" and "Touch It." He also has appeared in movies, including "Shaft" and "Finding Forrester."