Britney Spears has been formally charged with a misdemeanor driving under the influence offense nearly two months after her arrest in Southern California, according to prosecutors.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office announced on April 30 that it had filed one count alleging Spears drove while under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs. Prosecutors stated that she unlawfully operated a vehicle while impaired.
Spears is scheduled to be arraigned in Ventura County Superior Court on May 4. Because the charge is a misdemeanor, her attorney may appear in court on her behalf, and it remains unclear whether she will attend in person.
A spokesperson for the district attorney’s office said Spears may be offered the opportunity to resolve the case through a plea to reckless driving involving alcohol or drugs, commonly referred to as a “wet reckless.” Officials said such agreements are typically considered for defendants with no prior DUI record, low blood alcohol levels, and cases involving no collisions or injuries.
If accepted, the proposed resolution would include 12 months of probation, completion of a DUI education program, and payment of required fines and fees.
Spears was arrested on March 4 after law enforcement officers reportedly suspected impairment. Authorities said she displayed signs of intoxication and participated in a series of field sobriety tests.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Spears had been driving a black BMW 430i at high speeds and in an erratic manner on a Ventura County highway.
In a statement attributed to her representatives, Spears was described as intending to comply with legal requirements and take appropriate steps moving forward. The statement also expressed hope that she would receive support from family and loved ones during the legal process.
