Judge rejects plea deal in ex-NFL star Sharper's rape case

NEW ORLEANS (AP) A federal judge has rejected a plea deal in the drug and rape case against former NFL star Darren Sharper, saying the possible nine-year sentence doesn't reflect the seriousness of his alleged crimes.

U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo said Thursday that Sharper must decide before a sentencing hearing next month whether he wants to withdraw his guilty plea.

Sharper had pleaded guilty as part of a deal involving charges in four states. He also has pleaded guilty or no contest to similar charges in state courts in California, Arizona, Nevada and Louisiana.

His attorneys declined comment as they left the courtroom.