Related Articles
Justin Timberlake’s DWI case wrapped Friday with a plea deal as he pled guilty to the lesser charge of driving while ability impaired.
The musician, 43, appeared with his attorney Edward Burke Jr. on Sept. 13 for a hearing at the courthouse in Sag Harbor, N.Y. after reaching an agreement in his DWI case.
Timberlake addressed Sag Harbor Village Justice Carl Irace, telling the judge that throughout his life, he has tried to hold himself to the “highest standard possible,” and that given the “time to reflect” since his June arrest, has “found myself in a position of disappointment” with himself.
“I did not live up to the standard I hold myself to,” Timberlake said, adding that he had been “raised on certain values” and is aware of his large platform, “a platform I spent my life making.”
He told the court that he’d “like to take a moment to show gratitude to everybody involved,” and said that since he grew up in a small town, he understands “the strain this can put” on local resources.
Following Timberlake’s statement, Irace questioned the singer’s “intent,” telling him he still had not addressed the decision to drive when he could have taken a taxi or used a rideshare app.
“I found myself in a position where I should’ve taken a moment,” Timberlake told Irace. “I should’ve had better judgment. I understand and appreciate the seriousness of this situation I put myself in.”
Following Timberlake’s statement, Irace questioned the singer’s “intent,” telling him he still had not addressed the decision to drive when he could have taken a taxi or used a rideshare app.
“I found myself in a position where I should’ve taken a moment,” Timberlake told Irace. “I should’ve had better judgment. I understand and appreciate the seriousness of this situation I put myself in.”
Irace replied that he appreciated Timberlake’s sincerity and that the singer had given the situation a lot of thought. The judge told Timberlake “I believe you” before granting the plea deal and imposing the terms of the sentence.
Timberlake will be required to make a public service announcement about the dangers of driving impaired, pay a $500 fine with a $260 surcharge, complete 25 hours of community service at the non-profit of his choice — which Timberlake said he “would be honored to” do — and have his license suspended for 90 days.
Timberlake and Burke each addressed the press following the sentencing.
