Top line
According to several media outlets, singer Justin Timberlake pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol on Friday and entered into a deal in New York that includes a fine and other penalties for the non-criminal traffic violation.
Timberlake pleaded guilty in New York. (Photo by Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Key data
According to the Associated Press, Timberlake was fined $500 and fined $260 for the violation. He was also sentenced to 25 hours of community service and to appear in a public mockumentary film about drunk driving.
The plea is related to the singer’s arrest three months ago in the Hamptons when he ignored a stop sign and drifted into another lane before being pulled over by a police officer who described Timberlake as having bloodshot eyes and smelling of alcohol.
Timberlake was initially charged with drunk driving, an offense to which he pleaded not guilty before entering into a plea deal earlier this week to the lesser offense of driving under the influence.
Edward Burke Jr., Timberlake’s attorney, said after Timberlake’s hearing on Friday that his client had only one drink in the two hours before his arrest, the AP reported.
Get text alerts for Forbes breaking news: We’re launching text alerts to keep you up to date with the day’s biggest headlines. Text alerts to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
Key quote
“Even if you’ve only had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car,” Timberlake told reporters after the hearing. “There are so many alternatives.”
Important background
Timberlake, who failed breathalyzer tests, refused to have his blood alcohol content tested and later had his license revoked, made headlines with his arrest, which sparked memes about comments Timberlake reportedly made to the officer that the incident would “ruin the tour.” Timberlake was referring to his “The Forget Tomorrow World Tour,” which began in April and runs through December. The singer spoke about his arrest during a stop in Chicago, telling fans, “It’s been a rough week, but you guys are here and I’m here.”
More information
Police: Justin Timberlake ignored stop sign and swerved before being arrested for drunk driving in the Hamptons (Forbes)
Justin Timberlake reportedly takes a plea deal in drunk driving case (Forbes)
