Britney Spears is dealing with a new legal situation after authorities in Southern California arrested the pop star on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Law enforcement records from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office show that the 44-year-old singer was taken into custody on the night of March 4 in Ventura, California. Officials released Spears several hours later in the early morning of March 5 through a “cite and release” procedure, which allows a person to leave custody after receiving a citation that requires them to appear in court later.
A law enforcement source confirmed the arrest was connected to suspicion of DUI. Spears is scheduled to appear in court on May 4 in connection with the case.
Authorities listed the arrest as a “cite and release,” and records did not show probation conditions tied to the incident at the time of her release. Officials have not publicly shared additional details about what led to the traffic stop.
Representatives for Spears did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the arrest.
The development arrives during a period of major changes in Spears’ life and career. In 2021, a Los Angeles judge ended the conservatorship that had controlled her personal and financial affairs for more than a decade. The court decision followed years of legal battles and public advocacy from supporters who called for the arrangement to be terminated.
Spears also recently finalized a deal to sell the rights to her music catalog, though the financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.
Fans also noticed that Spears’ Instagram account appeared to disappear earlier this week, though it is unclear when the page was deactivated.
Spears shares two sons, Preston and Jayden, with former husband Kevin Federline. Her next scheduled court appearance connected to the DUI case is set for May 4.
