Justin Timberlake has reached a plea deal to resolve his drink-driving case in New York state, avoiding a criminal record.
The pop star, who was initially charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI), pleaded guilty to the lesser offense of driving while impaired, a non-criminal traffic violation.
As part of the plea deal, Timberlake has been fined $500, with an additional $260 surcharge. He has also been ordered to complete 25 hours of community service and deliver a public safety message outside the court.
Addressing the incident, Timberlake urged the public to avoid drinking and driving, stating, “Even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car. This is a mistake I have made, but I hope whoever is watching and listening right now can learn from this.”
The 10-time Grammy winner was arrested on June 18 in the Hamptons after running a stop sign and failing to stay on the correct side of the road. According to police, Timberlake exhibited signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and a strong smell of alcohol. He declined to take a breathalyser test and failed sobriety tests. When questioned, Timberlake reportedly admitted to having one martini.
With this resolution, Timberlake avoids a potentially damaging criminal record, allowing him to focus on his music and entertainment career.
