Lex Valluzzi, Arts Editor
Last summer, 43-year-old pop star Justin Timberlake, notably remembered as a member of the boy band NSYNC, was arrested in the Hamptons for driving intoxicated. Throughout this case, Timberlake was being recorded and followed by the press. On Sep. 13, Timberlake made the decision to plead guilty to a non-criminal traffic violation.
In the Sag Harbour Village Justice Court, Timberlake stated to Judge Carl Irace that he tries to hold himself “to the highest standards possible” and has had “time to reflect” since his arrest. Timberlake admitted he was disappointed with his actions.
It’s also been noted to the press, the body cam footage from Timberlake’s arrest has not been released to the public. Timberlake’s legal team made an agreement with police to keep the footage sealed from those outside prosecutors, officers, and Timberlake’s lawyers.
When questioned by Judge Irace questioned why Timberlake had decided to drive instead of taking a taxi, Timberlake stated: “I found myself in a position where I should’ve taken a moment, I should’ve had better judgment. I understand and appreciate the seriousness of this situation I put myself in.”
“The evidence revealed that my client finished the contents of one drink in two hours at the American Hotel, contrary to what was reported, he wasn’t drinking other people’s drinks or warned in advance not to drive,” Timberlake’s lawyer, Edward Burke, Jr., addressed the press following Timberlake’s sentencing. “He wasn’t rude, he wasn’t obnoxious, he wasn’t belligerent. In fact, he was polite, cooperative, and he was respectful during his entire encounter with law enforcement. His plea today to the reduced and amended non-criminal charge is consistent with these facts.”
A part of the plea deal included Timberlake having to make a public safety announcement about the dangers of driving drunk. This also includes the suspension of his license for 90 days, paying a $500 fine along with a $250 surcharge, and completing 25 hours of community service at a non-profit of his choice. Timberlake has been given one year to complete his service.
“What I’d like to say to everyone watching and listening, even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car,” Timberlake addressed the press outside the courthouse. “There’s so many alternatives. Call a friend. Take an Uber. There’s many travel apps. Take a taxi. This is a mistake that I made, but I’m hoping that whoever’s listening and watching right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have… Even one drink. Don’t get behind the wheel of a car.”
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