Judge lectures ex-lover of Liberace but spares him prison time after failed drug test

RENO, Nev. – An ex-lover of Liberace who was the subject of a recent HBO film on the pianist’s life is being given a second chance to complete a drug court program instead of going to prison after testing positive for methamphetamine in violation of his probation.

Scott Thorson admitted Wednesday in court that he’s an addict, but he said he’s determined to get sober and avoid serving up to 20 years in prison for burglary and ID theft. He plans to write another book on the heels of his “Behind the Candelabra,” used as the basis for the HBO film nominated for 15 Emmys.

Judge Patrick Flanagan rejected the prosecution’s motion to revoke Thorson’s probation. But Flanagan told Thorson he’s “not impressed” with Thorson’s “so-called celebrity status” and warned him it’s his last chance.