Los Angeles – Britney Spears was arrested Wednesday night in Ventura County on suspicion of driving under the influence, marking the pop star’s first arrest since the termination of her 13-year conservatorship in 2021.
The 44-year-old singer was stopped by the California Highway Patrol around 9:30 p.m. after being spotted “erratically braking, swerving and driving without taillights” on the 101 South near Westlake Village, according to police dispatch audio.
Booking and Release
Spears was booked around 3 a.m. Thursday and released just after 6 a.m. A law enforcement source confirmed that an unknown substance found in her BMW sedan is being tested, and the impounded vehicle was searched again Thursday morning.
The singer was taken to a hospital emergency room immediately after being pulled over so blood could be drawn for alcohol testing.
Representative’s Statement
A representative for Spears issued a statement to multiple outlets, striking a tone of accountability while signaling concern.
“This was an unfortunate incident that is completely inexcusable,” the representative said. “Britney is going to take the right steps and comply with the law and hopefully this can be the first step in a long overdue change that needs to occur in Britney’s life.”
The statement added that Spears’ sons, Sean Preston and Jayden James, will be spending time with her, and “her loved ones are going to come up with an overdue needed plan to set her up for success for well-being.”
Legal Context
The arrest is Spears’ first since her landmark 13-year conservatorship ended in November 2021, which had controlled her personal and financial decisions. She previously faced misdemeanor charges in 2007 for hit-and-run and driving without a license.
Next Steps
Spears has a court hearing scheduled for May 4 in Ventura County Superior Court. The outcome of the substance testing and blood alcohol analysis will likely play a key role in any potential charges.
