Ex-Miss USA Lu Parker Cuts Deal for LAX Petty Theft

11:50 AM PT -- Robert Shapiro tells TMZ: "The earbuds were left behind in a canister and Mrs. Parker had no intention of doing anything but finding the rightful owner. As she had her own earbuds as well as her own headphones, and she regrets the inconvenience this has caused everyone."

Former Miss USA Lu Parker is going to a support group for petty thieves ... 'cause that beats the hell out of going to trial for walking off with a pair of earbuds.

The former beauty queen, and current L.A. news anchor, accepted an offer from the City Attorney. We're told Parker will participate in something called the Neighborhood Justice Program. Basically, attendees gather AA style, talk about their crimes and how they affected others ... and take responsibility.

TMZ broke the story ... Parker was busted at LAX last month for taking the headphones from the TSA security checkpoint. The gear belonged to an off-duty LAPD detective, and she was quickly apprehended.

If Parker completes the program, criminal charges will not be filed.