There's a long tradition of superstars receiving special treatment just because they're famous, especially when it comes to legal matters. If stars receive punishment at all, it's usually community service, or a fine that doesn't even put a dent in the star's pocket.

Oakland County Prosecutor David Gorcyca wasn't making any special exceptions for five Indiana Pacers, though, when he charged them with assault and battery after the Nov. 19 brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

You've seen the footage. A fan tossed a drink at Indiana's Ron Artest, who then charged into the stands and began beating a man he thought had done it. His teammate Stephen Jackson joined in and threw punches at fans, who punched back. Pacers All-Star Jermaine O'Neal hit a fan who ran onto the court.

NBA commissioner David Stern suspended Artest for the rest of the season, Jackson for 30 games and O'Neal for 25. Six other players, including four Pistons' players, received shorter suspensions for their involvement in the brawl.

Artest and Jackson were both charged with one count of assault and battery, a misdemeanor punishable by three months in jail and a $500 fine. O'Neal was charged with two counts of assault and battery.

It's great that formal charges have been brought against the players, and that they are being held responsible for their actions. Although we don't think the players will go to jail, it's important that they are held to the same standards as everyone else who instigates or encourages a brawl anywhere else.

If prosecutors are at all concerned about the safety of fans who attend these games, they'll make sure that players receive the deserved punishment and not just a slap on the wrist. While the dust was still settling on this fight last month, we opined that because this was the sort of violence that could change sports, the punishments should fit the crimes. And like in any other case, the only thing the stars should receive is justice.