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Justin Timberlake after guilty plea: 'If you've had one drink, don't get behind the wheel'


Justin Timberlake and his attorney speak to media after entering guilty to plea to impaired driving charge on Friday, September 13, 2024. (Pool)
Justin Timberlake and his attorney speak to media after entering guilty to plea to impaired driving charge on Friday, September 13, 2024. (Pool)
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Justin Timberlake arrived in Sag Harbor, New York Friday morning and pleaded guilty to impaired driving.

The judge sentenced Timberlake to a $500 fine with a $260 surcharge, and 25 hours of community service at the nonprofit of his choosing, according to the Associated Press.

The super-star admitted that he drove his SUV on June 18 after having one drink.

Even if you've had one drink, don't get behind the wheel of a car. There's so many alternatives," he said. "This is a mistake that I made, but I'm hoping that whoever's watching and listening right now. Can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have.

Timberlake's appearance comes after he was charged in June with driving while intoxicated.

New York prosecutors recently allowed for the singer's charge to be downgraded to a lesser offense of "driving while ability impaired."

The boy band singer-turned-solo star had pleaded not guilty to the DWI charge in August.

After Friday's court appearance, he appeared to show compassion for the small New York town.

During his public remarks he acknowledged "the strain or unique nature" his caseput the community through.

I just want to say to everyone who's been involved from everyone in the courtroom to everyone outside, including the police department,that I'm very grateful andI thank them.

Timberlake also apologized for his actions, saying, "Many of you have probably been covering me for a lot of my life. I try to hold myself to a very high standard for myself, and this was not that."

"I found myself in a position where I could’ve made a different decision. But I’ve had some time to reflect on that," he said.

Before walking away with his attorney, Edward Burke, Timberlake asked the public to be "more safe out there," adding he would do the same.

Surveillance video captured on the village's live camera feed showed a vehicle matching the description of the SUV that Timberlake was accused of driving.

It was reportedly captured shortly before Timberlake was pulled over by a Sag Harbor police officer at 12:37 a.m.

Court documents alleged the singer failed to stop at a posted stop sign and veered out of his lane for blocks before the police officer conducted a traffic stop.

Timberlake allegedly had slowed speech and unsteady footing. The document also noted he "performed poorly" during a sobriety test.

The booking photo for the celebrity confirmed Timberlake had "bloodshot" and "glassy" eyes, which was also noted in the arrest affidavit.

The Grammy winner addressed the arrest to fans in Chicago during a concert.

"We've been together through ups and downs and lefts and rights. It’s been a tough week, but you’re here and I’m here, and nothing can change this moment right now," he said to the cheering crowd. "I know sometimes I’m hard to love but you keep on loving me and I love you right back. Thank you so much."



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