Justin Timberlake Issues Apology After Pleading to Lesser DWAI Charge; Must Pay Fine, Complete Community Service and PSA [Video]

Justin Timberlake shared a message with fans on Friday after appearing in court to resolve his June 18 arrest for impaired driving. The singer expressed regret and offered advice to avoid similar situations in the future.

During the hearing, the court accepted Timberlake’s plea to a charge of driving while ability impaired (DWAI), which resulted in a more serious charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI) being dismissed. As part of the agreement, Timberlake must complete 25 hours of community service within a year, pay a $500 fine, face a 90-day license suspension, and participate in a public service announcement about the dangers of drinking and driving.

Timberlake addressed reporters after leaving the courtroom.

“I try to hold myself to a very high standard… this was not that,” he admitted. He used the moment to stress the importance of making safe choices, saying, “Even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car. There are so many alternatives—call a friend, take an Uber, use a travel app, or take a taxi. This is a mistake that I made, but I’m hoping whoever is watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have.”

Timberlake also acknowledged the impact of the incident on the local community. “I grew up in a small town, so I can appreciate and understand the strain or unique nature that this must have been on the people of Sag Harbor,” he said. “I just want to say to everyone who has been involved, including the police department, that I am very grateful, and I thank them.”

He closed his remarks by encouraging everyone to be more cautious. “We can all be more safe out there, and I’m going to do my part. I hope that everyone else does their part.”

Addressing any concerns about preferential treatment due to Timberlake’s celebrity status, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said that the case was handled fairly and like any other. “We want to make sure we’re being consistent, and we don’t want to treat any defendant better than others because of any perceived notoriety they may have,” Tierney said. “But we certainly don’t want to treat people worse for the same reason.”