‘This is a mistake that I made’

Justin Timberlake spoke to the media after pleading responsible on Friday to a lowered cost of driving whereas skill impaired (DWAI) in his driving whereas intoxicated (DWI) case in Sag Harbor, N.Y. He mentioned he hopes others “can study from this error.”

The “SexyBack” singer appeared in Sag Harbor Village Court docket to enter a brand new plea stemming from his June arrest within the Hamptons after making a take care of prosecutors for the lowered noncriminal cost, which is a site visitors violation. The decide sentenced him to 25 hours of neighborhood service on the nonprofit of his selecting and required him to pay a $500 advantageous, 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 customary, 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 selections.”

Exterior courtroom, Timberlake stood behind his lawyer, Edward Burke Jr., who thanked the Suffolk County district lawyer’s workplace for lowering the cost within the plea deal. Burke additionally informed the press that, opposite to studies, Timberlake had “one drink” consumed over “two hours” on the American Lodge earlier than getting behind the wheel on the evening he was arrested.

The “Mirrors” singer, who has saved mum since his arrest (apart from a remark throughout a live performance about having a “robust week”), then addressed the media. He was carrying a black shirt, a black sweater, brown pants and a pearl necklace. He eliminated his sun shades earlier than he spoke.

“Lots of you could have in all probability been overlaying me for lots of my life, and as chances are you’ll know, I attempt to maintain myself to a really excessive customary for myself,” mentioned the performer. “This isn’t that. I discovered myself able the place I might have made a distinct determination.”

Timberlake, who misplaced his license for one 12 months for refusing to take a Breathalyzer or chemical check, mentioned that having had time to mirror on what occurred, he needed to share what he had discovered.

“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 automobile. 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 study 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 will all be extra secure on the market. And I’m going to do my half. I hope that everybody else does their half.”