Justin Timberlake addresses journalists after tribunal: 'I could've opted for an alternative course of action'
Justin Timberlake admitted culpability Friday to a vehicular infringement -- operating a vehicle while faculties were compromised -- to resolve his driving while inebriated case in the Hamptons.
Timberlake expressed remorse for his conduct in statements to journalists after the tribunal, saying, "Many of you have likely been documenting my life for a substantial duration . ... I endeavor to hold myself to an exceptionally high standard -- and this instance did not meet that criterion."
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"I discovered myself in a situation where I could've selected a different course of action. However, I've had some time to contemplate that," he stated.
"What I'd like to convey to everyone observing and listening: Even if you've consumed a single beverage, refrain from taking control of an automobile. There are numerous alternatives. Contact a companion, summon an Uber," Timberlake stated.
Timberlake appeared in person at the Sag Harbor Village tribunal on Friday. The adjudicator mandated him to remit a financial penalty and perform community service.
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Timberlake also consented to feature in a public service announcement regarding the perils of intoxicated driving.
"The evidence disclosed that my client finished the contents of one beverage over two hours at the American Hotel," Timberlake's legal representative, Edward Blake, informed journalists after the tribunal as the pop luminary observed. "And contrary to what was reported, he wasn't consuming other individuals' beverages, or cautioned in advance not to drive. He wasn't discourteous, he wasn't objectionable, he wasn't belligerent. In fact, he was courteous and he was cooperative and he was respectful throughout his entire encounter with law enforcement."
"His plea today to the reduced and amended non-criminal charge ... aligns with these facts," he stated.
Timberlake said, "This is an error that I committed, but I'm hoping that whoever is observing and listening at this moment can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have."
"We can all be more cautious out there. And I'm going to do my part, I hope that everyone else does their part," he stated.
Timberlake was departing a hotel in June when he was halted for disregarding a stop sign and veering into the oncoming lane.
The officer detected the scent of alcohol on the pop star's breath, and law enforcement noted he had bloodshot, glassy eyes, according to a police report. Timberlake also exhibited slow speech, was unsteady on his feet and performed poorly on a field sobriety examination, according to the criminal complaint.
Timberlake informed the arresting officer he had consumed only one beverage, the complaint stated.
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said in a statement Friday, "Mr. Timberlake opted to plead guilty and accept responsibility for operating a vehicle while his ability was impaired by alcohol. We appreciate his willingness to hold himself accountable for his behavior, and for utilizing his platform to increase public awareness about the dangers of intoxicated driving. ... In 2024, with the prevalence and convenience of public transit and ride-shares, there is no justification to take control of a vehicle when you are impaired in any manner."
"Mr. Timberlake received the same treatment as any other defendant," Tierney added. "Justice should be applied equally to all individuals, regardless of their wealth or celebrity status."
The vocalist is currently on his "The Forget Tomorrow World Tour." His next performance is Sept. 28 in Newark, New Jersey.