Justin Timberlake spoke to the media after pleading responsible on Friday to a decreased cost of driving whereas means impaired (DWAI) in his driving whereas intoxicated (DWI) case in Sag Harbor, N.Y. He mentioned he hopes others “can be taught from this error.”
The “SexyBack” singer appeared in Sag Harbor Village Courtroom to enter a brand new plea stemming from his June arrest within the Hamptons after making a take care of prosecutors for the decreased noncriminal cost, which is a site visitors violation. The choose sentenced him to 25 hours of neighborhood service on the nonprofit of his selecting and required him to pay a $500 positive, with a $260 surcharge, and make a public security announcement in regards to the risks of driving whereas impaired.
Timberlake mentioned after the listening to, “I attempt to maintain myself to a really excessive normal, and this was not that” and that he “ought to’ve had higher judgment.” He additionally mentioned he understood “the seriousness of” what occurred, is “grateful for the chance to maneuver ahead” and can make “higher choices.”
Outdoors courtroom, Timberlake stood behind his legal professional, Edward Burke Jr., who thanked the Suffolk County district legal professional’s workplace for lowering the cost within the plea deal. Burke additionally advised the press that, opposite to reviews, Timberlake had “one drink” consumed over “two hours” on the American Resort earlier than getting behind the wheel on the evening he was arrested.
The “Mirrors” singer, who has stored mum since his arrest (apart from a remark throughout a live performance about having a “robust week”), then addressed the media. He was sporting a black shirt, a black sweater, brown pants and a pearl necklace. He eliminated his sun shades earlier than he spoke.
“A lot of you might have in all probability been masking me for lots of my life, and as chances are you’ll know, I attempt to maintain myself to a really excessive normal for myself,” mentioned the performer. “This isn’t that. I discovered myself ready the place I might have made a distinct determination.”
Timberlake, who misplaced his license for one yr for refusing to take a Breathalyzer or chemical check, mentioned that having had time to replicate on what occurred, he needed to share what he had realized.
“I’d prefer to say to everybody watching and listening, even in case you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a automotive. There’s so many alternate options. Name a buddy, take an Uber … take a taxi.”
He continued, “This can be a mistake that I made, however I’m hoping that whoever’s watching and listening proper now can be taught from this error. I do know that I definitely have.”
Timberlake mentioned he was “grateful” to the police, courts and everybody concerned with bringing decision to this case. “In closing,” he added, “I’d prefer to say: We are able to all be extra secure on the market. And I’m going to do my half. I hope that everybody else does their half.”
