PHOENIX (AP) - Rapper DMX has reached a plea deal on multiple drug possession, theft and animal cruelty charges.

DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of animal cruelty, one count of theft, and one count each of felony possession of marijuana and a narcotic drug.

A Maricopa County Superior Court commissioner has set a sentencing hearing for Jan. 30.

Additional charges will be dismissed then.

The 38-year-old rapper has been arrested several times in Arizona in the past year and missed several court dates.

Authorities alleged that DMX gave a false name and Social Security number when being treated at a Scottsdale hospital in April. He was indicted on felony charges of theft and taking someone's identity.

The animal cruelty charge, a misdemeanor, came from an August 2007 raid that Maricopa County sheriff's deputies conducted at DMX's Cave Creek home. Authorities investigating a report of animal abuse found three dead dogs, guns, ammunition and drug paraphernalia.



(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

AP-NY-12-30-08 1507EST