12 May,2026 11:15 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Britney Spears (Pic/X)
Pop singer Britney Spears, on Monday, pleaded guilty in the Southern California drink driving case. Her lawyer emphasised that her focus is now on her recovery and moving forward. The 44-year-old singer was not present at the hearing, which is allowed in misdemeanour cases.
Ventura County Commissioner Matthew Nemerson, during the hearing on Monday, sentenced Spears to 12 months' probation and one day in jail. The singer was also ordered to pay mandatory fines, complete a three-month state-approved DUI (Driving Under Influence) education programme, attend weekly therapy sessions and also meet a psychiatrist twice a month.
Spears reportedly pleaded guilty to what is commonly known as a "wet reckless", a reduced reckless driving charge under the California Vehicle Code. On the day of the hearing, Goldstein said, "I don't think anybody's happy about pleading guilty to anything, but under the circumstances, to get this behind her, I think everybody is pleased with the result," further adding, "We appreciate the district attorney recognising the positive steps that Britney is taking to help herself."
The case emerged from Spears' arrest by the California Highway Patrol on March 4. The police officers reportedly stopped her for erratic driving. After they noticed signs of impairment, they carried out field sobriety tests followed by arresting her on suspicion of driving under the influence. The singer was booked at around 3 am on March 5 but was released shortly after 6 am. Jail records described it as a "cite and release".
Authorities later completed their investigation on March and before sending the case to prosecutors. Last month, Spears voluntarily checked herself into a substance abuse treatment facility following the DUI incident. Goldstein stated that she has since completed rehabilitation and returned home. He also called reports suggesting otherwise "false". Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenk noted that DUI remained a "serious crime" but added that Spears had taken "full responsibility" for her actions.
A few days after the incident, Britney called her arrest a 'blessing in disguise' on social media, adding that it led her to a 'spiritual journey.'
