14-9-2024 (NEW YORK) Renowned pop star Justin Timberlake, 43, has entered a guilty plea to a lesser traffic offence in a New York State court, following his arrest earlier this summer for a driving incident. The case, which initially involved more serious allegations, was resolved on Friday with Timberlake accepting responsibility for a reduced charge.
The Grammy-winning artist faced legal scrutiny after law enforcement observed him disregarding a stop sign and deviating from his lane. Initially arrested on suspicion of driving whilst intoxicated, Timberlake has now admitted to the lesser violation of driving whilst ability impaired.
As part of the plea agreement, the court imposed a fine of £395 on the singer. Additionally, Timberlake has been mandated to complete community service, highlighting the judicial system’s emphasis on rehabilitation alongside punitive measures.
Edward Burke, Timberlake’s legal representative, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasising that the reduced charge more accurately reflected the circumstances of the incident. Burke staunchly refuted any assertions that his client was inebriated at the time of his arrest, seeking to clarify the narrative surrounding the event.
The judge presiding over the case took several factors into consideration when determining the sentence. Timberlake’s driving privileges had already been suspended prior to the hearing. In a notable aspect of the ruling, the court ordered the pop star to dedicate between 25 and 40 hours to community service at a non-profit organisation. Furthermore, Timberlake has been tasked with creating a “public safety announcement”, leveraging his celebrity status to promote responsible behaviour.
The incident in question occurred on 18 June in the picturesque town of Sag Harbor, Long Island. Timberlake was behind the wheel of a 2025 grey BMW shortly after midnight when he caught the attention of local law enforcement. Court documents paint a vivid picture of the encounter, describing the artist as exhibiting “bloodshot and glassy” eyes, emitting “a strong odour of an alcoholic beverage”, and demonstrating impaired motor skills during standardised field sobriety tests.
During the initial traffic stop, Timberlake reportedly informed the officer that he had consumed one martini before driving. Notably, he declined to submit to a breathalyser test, a decision that often carries its own legal implications.
Addressing reporters following the court proceedings, Timberlake adopted a contrite tone, acknowledging the gravity of his actions. “I strive to hold myself to a very high standard, and this incident fell short of that,” he remarked. The singer went on to express hope that his experience might serve as a cautionary tale for others, stating, “I’m hoping that whoever’s watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have.”
In a poignant message that underscores the potential consequences of even minimal alcohol consumption before driving, Timberlake added, “Even one drink – don’t get behind the wheel of a car.”
