QUICK TAKES

Dane Cook’s half-brother is in hot water after being accused of embezzling millions of dollars from the comedian. Prosecutors say 43-year-old Darryl McCauley stole millions while working as Cook’s manager as part of the comedian’s company, Great Dane Enterprises, Inc. They allege he transferred funds from Cook’s business accounts to his personal accounts between July 2007 and December 2008, including a forged $3 million check from Cook’s account to himself.

Appeal hearing set

A police prosecutor said Wednesday that British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse has been summoned to appear in a Norwegian court on Jan. 12 as part of an appeal against a fine in a drug possession case. Winehouse and her husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, were arrested in Bergen, Norway, in October 2007 on charges of possessing 7 grams (1/4-ounce) of marijuana. They were held overnight and released after paying fines of 3,000 kroner ($415) each.

Winehouse appealed the fine, saying Norwegian police made mistakes in the case. According to Ole Kvelstad, Winehouse’s Norwegian attorney, paying the fine amounted to a guilty plea, which could cause problems if she tries to enter the United States.

Harrelson marries

Who says Woody Harrelson doesn’t take his time doing things? The 47-year-old actor married his girlfriend, Laura Louie, in Maui on Sunday. The pair started dating 20 years ago and have three daughters. His spokeswoman, Ina Treciokas, said the ceremony was attended by family and friends.

DMX reaches deal

Rapper DMX reached a plea deal Tuesday in Phoenix on multiple drug possession, theft and animal cruelty charges. Wearing a black-and-white striped prison uniform and appearing in handcuffs, the rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, pleaded guilty to one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty, one felony count of theft and one count each of felony possession of marijuana and a narcotic drug. His sentencing hearing has been set for Jan. 30. He is expected to receive a minimum 90-day jail sentence as well as probation under terms of the deal, according to the Maricopa County attorney’s office. He will remain in county jail until his sentencing and will not be given credit for time served.

Compiled from wire services by Melissa Sullivan