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Britney Spears faces criminal charges after she was pulled over and arrested on suspicion of drunk driving in March.
On Thursday, April 30, prosecutors in Ventura County, California, charged Spears with driving under the influence, a misdemeanor misdemeanor. The hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 4, at 9 a.m. PT. Spears does not have to appear in person; your lawyer can appear on your behalf.
A press release from the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office said they planned to offer Spears a so-called “wet reckless” deal. This settlement is intended for people with no prior drunk driving convictions, a low blood alcohol level, and no accident or injuries.
Voluntary rehabilitation stay
Prosecutors emphasized that this type of agreement is “common, particularly when a defendant takes steps of her own volition to address underlying issues” – such as through rehabilitation or therapy. Spears voluntarily checked into a rehabilitation facility earlier this month.
If Spears accepts the deal, she can plead guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The sentence is expected to include 12 months of probation, fees and fines, participation in a DUI course and credit for time already served.
A spokesman for Spears could not immediately be reached for comment.
Arrested in the early hours of the morning
Police officers stopped Spears in March after reports that a BMW was driving “dangerously at excessive speeds,” a California Highway Patrol spokesman told Rolling Stone at the time. Officers said Spears “showed signs of impairment and underwent a series of field sobriety tests,” after which she was arrested. Spears was taken into custody around 3 a.m. and released shortly after 6 a.m.
A spokesperson for Spears issued a statement at the time: “This was an unfortunate incident that is absolutely inexcusable. Britney will take the right steps and follow the law – and hopefully this can be the first step toward long-overdue change in Britney’s life. We hope she gets the help and support she needs during this difficult time.”