Earlier this morning, Justin Timberlake was found on the wrong side of the law.
The “Cry Me a River” singer might need a few shoulders to lean on after being arrested for driving around 12: 30 am while intoxicated in Sag Harbor, NY. According to the Sag Harbor Police Department, Timberlake, 43, was taken into custody following a dinner at the upscale American Hotel.
It appears that the pop icon was attempting a short drive to a friend’s house when he was stopped by local authorities. Details remain sparse, but we know he was driving a BMW 2025. After his arrest, Timberlake was taken to a police station in East Hampton where he refused to take a breathalyzer test. The incident has sent ripples across his fan base and the music community.
Before this, Timberlake had maintained a relatively clean record, especially regarding any alcohol or drug-related offenses, which is notable given his high-profile status in the entertainment industry. However, he has discussed drinking in various interviews and has been involved in the alcohol industry himself as a co-founder of the tequila brand Sauza 901.
As per the court documents, Timberlake is facing at least one DWI charge. The court papers also reveal that Timberlake’s eyes were bloodshot, his speech was slurred, and he was noticeably unsteady on his feet. Despite his claim of having just one martini, his failure in all the sobriety tests and refusal to take a breathalyzer test only compounded his troubles.
This news comes at a particularly inconvenient time, as Timberlake is in the midst of his “Forget Tomorrow World Tour,” his first global tour in nearly six years. Fans are undoubtedly were worried, as his next performance at Madison Square Garden looms just next week. However, as per the update, Timberlake has been released (without bond) this morning.
Was Timberlake under the influence of drugs while driving?
For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of impaired driving charges, it’s worth noting the distinction between DWI and DUI (driving under the influence). Both terms often pop up in headlines with celebrity mishaps, but there’s a subtle distinction to be aware of. DWI stands for “Driving While Intoxicated,” which can involve alcohol or other impairments. DUI is “Driving Under the Influence,” a broader term that could encompass driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs (yes, even those prescription ones), or other intoxicants.
Given that Timberlake was charged specifically with DWI after his evening at the American Hotel, it hints more strongly at alcohol being the key factor in his impairment. While getting busted for allegedly mixing booze (or whatever else) with driving is never a good look, fans rally behind the “SexyBack” singer, hoping for his return to the spotlight for all the right reasons. For now, fans might be revisiting “What Goes Around… Comes Around.”
Timberlake’s next court hearing is set for July 26, as stated by the Suffolk County district attorney’s office.