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Justin Timberlake Files Lawsuit to Block Release of DUI Body Camera Footage

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Justin Timberlake Sues Sag Harbor to Block Body Camera Footage Release

Justin Timberlake has filed a lawsuit against the Village of Sag Harbor, its police department, and police chief to prevent the release of body camera footage from his June 18, 2024, drunken-driving arrest. His attorneys are seeking a temporary restraining order from a Suffolk County Supreme Court judge to block the footage's release, which was requested by media members under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).

Timberlake's Legal Argument Against Release

Attorneys for Timberlake argue that the footage depicts him in a "vulnerable state" during his interaction with law enforcement. They contend it captures details of his physical appearance, demeanor, speech, and conduct during field sobriety tests and subsequent arrest.

They contend that releasing this footage would cause "severe and irreparable harm" to his personal and professional reputation, subject him to "public ridicule and harassment," and serve no legitimate public interest, constituting an unwarranted invasion of privacy.

Village's Stance on Transparency

Sag Harbor Mayor Thomas Gardella stated that the village, after an internal review, had planned to release the footage but will now await the court's ruling.

Gardella indicated the village's intention is transparency, not to conceal information.

Details of the Arrest

Timberlake was stopped at 12:17 a.m. on June 18, 2024, for failing to stop at a stop sign and failing to keep right. Police reported observing bloodshot and glassy eyes, a strong odor of alcohol, slowed speech, and unsteadiness. He performed poorly on field sobriety tests.

Plea and Sentencing

Following negotiations with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Timberlake pleaded guilty to driving while ability impaired by alcohol, a lesser noncriminal charge. On September 13, 2024, he was sentenced to 25 hours of community service, a $500 fine, a $260 surcharge, and was ordered to issue a public safety announcement. His driver’s license was suspended in New York State for 90 days.