Justin Timberlake has addressed the public after reaching a plea agreement in his driving while intoxicated (DWI) case in Sag Harbor, New York.
On Friday, Timberlake, 43, appeared in court where he accepted a guilty plea to a lesser charge of driving while ability impaired (DWAI), leading to the DWI charge being dismissed. The plea agreement included a fine of $500, plus a $260 surcharge, and required Timberlake to complete 25 hours of community service at a nonprofit, which he must finish within a year. Additionally, he was mandated to make a public safety announcement, which he did following the court proceedings.
The presiding judge initially expressed dissatisfaction with the leniency of the penalties and encouraged Timberlake to consent to the community service, which he accepted.
As Timberlake entered the courthouse, he was met by camera crews and a large crowd anticipating his remarks.
After the court session, Timberlake spoke to the media, acknowledging his mistake and stating, “I found myself in a position where I could have made a different decision.” He urged others to avoid driving, even after consuming just one drink, highlighting alternatives such as calling a friend or using rideshare services.
He expressed gratitude to the residents of Sag Harbor for their patience during the situation, stating, “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’s attorney, Edward Burke, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, disputing claims that Timberlake was excessively intoxicated at the time of his arrest. Burke noted that Timberlake consumed one drink over two hours and emphasized that the singer was cooperative and respectful during his interaction with law enforcement.
District Attorney Ray Tierney praised Timberlake for taking responsibility and increasing public awareness about the risks of impaired driving, stating that drunk driving poses a significant danger to the public.
During the proceedings, family members of Andrew McMorris, a Boy Scout who lost his life in a drunk driving incident in 2018, were present in the courtroom. His mother, Alisa McMorris, expressed hope that Timberlake’s experience could inspire change regarding drunk driving among younger generations.
Legal expert David Schwartz remarked that Timberlake received standard treatment for a first-time offender under the plea deal.
Timberlake’s troubles began on June 18, 2024, when he was pulled over in Sag Harbor after allegedly failing to obey a stop sign and not maintaining proper lane control. Police reports indicated that Timberlake exhibited signs of impairment, resulting in his arrest. He was initially released after his arraignment.
Having previously pleaded not guilty during a virtual court appearance on August 2, he faced a 90-day license suspension as a usual protocol in DWI cases. Timberlake is currently on a world tour, with performances scheduled in New Jersey and Brooklyn in the coming weeks.