WATCH: Justin Timberlake pleads guilty in drunk driving case, urges all to not repeat his 'mistake'
LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK: Justin Timberlake, 43, has reached a plea deal after pleading guilty to impaired driving in his drunk driving case.
The singer and actor and his attorney, Edward Burke Jr, appeared in court on September 13 in Sag Harbor, New York.
"I could have made a different decision ... even if you've had one drink, don't get behind the wheel of a car ... this is a mistake that I made" -- Justin Timberlake pic.twitter.com/488QhRQMUF
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 13, 2024
Justin Timberlake's DWI case
Justin Timberlake was arrested earlier this summer in June, following a traffic violation that resulted in his charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI).
The arrest occurred in Sag Harbor, New York after Timberlake ran a stop sign and veered out of his lane.
The 43-year-old musician was said to have reeked of alcohol upon getting out of his BMW, and police reported that his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy,” according to court filings.
Timberlake told the officer on the night of the incident that he had only consumed one martini and was following some friends home.
However, he showed signs of impairment during the sobriety tests, appearing unsteady on his feet with slowed speech, according to the police.
Timberlake initially pleaded not guilty at a hearing in August, where his driving license was suspended.
Justin Timberlake is remorseful for not living up to his standards
During his September 13 hearing, Justin Timberlake took responsibility for his actions and expressed regret.
He remained standing throughout the court proceedings and made a statement to the judge, acknowledging his mistakes, reported The Guardian.
“I did not live up to the standards that I try to hold for myself,” said the 'Can't Stop the Feeling!' singer, adding that he was grateful for the chance to move forward and learn from his actions.
As part of the plea deal, Timberlake needs to complete several conditions, including making a public service announcement about the dangers of driving under the influence.
Justin Timberlake wants none to repeat his mistakes of drunk driving
Outside the courthouse, Justin Timberlake addressed the public, urging everyone to avoid driving even after consuming a small amount of alcohol.
“I understand that I have a platform … to everyone watching and listening, even if you have only one drink, do not get behind the wheel of a car,” Timberlake said.
He added, “This is a mistake that I made but I’m hoping that whoever is watching and listening now can learn from this mistake, I certainly have.”
The singer went on to thank the local police department and the Sag Harbor community for their understanding.
“We can all be more safe out there and I’m going to do my part, I hope that everyone else does their part,” Timberlake concluded.
Justin Timberlake's plea deal and consequences
The 'Suit & Tie' singer’s plea deal includes a $500 fine along with a $260 surcharge.
He is also required to complete 25 hours of community service and will have his driving license suspended for 90 days, People noted.
Despite the case, Timberlake’s ongoing The Forget Tomorrow World Tour remains a priority.
A source told the publication that Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel, had already moved on from the arrest, focusing on their respective projects.
Timberlake’s next concert is scheduled for September 28 in Newark, New Jersey, and his tour will continue through June 2025.