Justin Timberlake addresses fans amid legal troubles

Justin Timberlake has revealed it’s been “a tough week” after he was arrested for driving while drunk.

Introduction

Justin Timberlake has admitted it’s been “a tough week” after he was charged with driving while intoxicated. Addressing fans at a concert in Chicago on Friday night, the singer also thanked them for continuing to support him.

The Incident

The 43-year-old pop star was arrested in New York on Tuesday for running a stop sign and failing to stay on the right side of the road. His lawyer has said he looks forward to “vigorously defending” the singer.

Timberlake’s Response

In his first performance since the incident, Timberlake told the crowd, “It’s been a tough week.” He added, “I know sometimes I’m hard to love, but you keep on loving me and I love you right back.” He also reminded fans that they have all been through “ups-and-downs and lefts-and-rights.”

Details of the Arrest

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The arrest occurred in Sag Harbor in the Hamptons, a popular summer destination for celebrities on Long Island. When officers stopped him, Timberlake’s eyes were “bloodshot and glassy” and a “strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath,” according to a charging document.

His speech was slowed, and he performed poorly on the officers’ sobriety tests, the document said. He also refused a breathalyzer test.

Legal Proceedings

“I had one martini and I followed my friends home,” Timberlake allegedly told the officer who stopped him, according to CBS News.

He was released without bail after being formally charged and is scheduled to appear virtually in court on 26 July, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office has said.

Past Struggles

Timberlake has previously spoken openly about seeking help for excessive drinking. On Wednesday, his lawyer Edward Burke Jr told PA Media news agency, “I look forward to vigorously defending Mr. Timberlake on these allegations.”

He added, “I will have a lot to say at the appropriate time but am currently awaiting full discovery from the District Attorney’s office.”

Impact on His Tour

Timberlake has been touring the US to promote his sixth album, “Everything I Thought It Was,” and is due to launch the international leg next month, kicking off with a two-night run in Poland. His scheduled court date coincides with the start of his world tour at the Tauron Arena in Krakow.

Potential Penalties

In the state of New York, penalties for charges related to driving while intoxicated include up to a year in jail, a $1,000 (£786) fine, and the suspension of a driver’s license for at least six months.

Timberlake was scheduled to perform two shows in Chicago this weekend, followed by a show in New York’s Madison Square Garden next Tuesday.

Career Highlights

A former member of the popular 90s boy band NSYNC, Timberlake is an actor, songwriter, and one of the best-selling music artists in the world.

The 10-time Grammy winner is also known for his roles in the films “The Social Network” and “Friends With Benefits.” Timberlake is married to actor Jessica Biel, with whom he shares two children.