Britney Spears has taken a plea deal in her DUI case in Ventura County and her DUI charge has been dropped.
The “Toxic” singer took responsibility for her conduct and pleaded guilty through her attorney Monday to a reduced charge of reckless driving involving alcohol and drugs, in what’s commonly called “wet reckless”. She received fines, was sentenced to 12 months probation, received credit for time served and will need to complete a three-month DUI course.
“Ms. Spears took responsibility for this misdemeanor offense, entering a guilty plea at the earliest stage and two months from the day she was arrested,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and doing so recklessly and erratically is an extremely serious crime endangering everyone on our roads and freeways.”
Under terms of the plea, additional probation terms include submitting to chemical testing for alcohol and/or drugs while driving, not operating a vehicle with any intoxicant in her system, and agreeing to search terms related to alcohol and/or drugs in her vehicle. Spears is also required to continue substance abuse and mental health treatment.
“For defendants without a prior DUI history, a low blood alcohol level, and where there is no crash or injury, prosecutors typically offer what is known as a ‘wet reckless,’” a DA spokesperson said.
Spears,with a long history of troubling behavior, was arrested in March on a suspicion of driving while intoxicated. She voluntarily checked into a treatment facility immediately following her release, and last week was charged with one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence.
“This was an unfortunate incident that is completely inexcusable,” according to a statement released by a rep for the singer at the time of her arrest. “Britney is going to take the right steps and comply with the law and hopefully this can be the first step in long overdue change that needs to occur in Britney’s life. Hopefully, she can get the help and support she needs during this difficult time. Her boys are going to be spending time with her. Her loved ones are going to come up with an overdue needed plan to set her up for success for well being.”
“Through her plea today, Britney has accepted responsibility for her conduct,” her lawyer Michael Goldstein told TMZ. She has taken significant steps to implement positive change which is clearly reflected in the Ventura County District Attorney’s decision to reduce the charge in this case and dismiss the DUI. Britney appreciates this discretion and is also grateful for the outpouring of support she has received.”