Prosecutors in California have reportedly filed criminal charges against Britney Spears following her arrest last month for driving under the influence (DUI).
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office filed the case Thursday, charging the pop star with one count of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Spears was arrested on March 4 on a Southern California highway after authorities said she was driving her BMW at an “erratic rate of speed.”
And his legal representatives have described the incident as “completely inexcusable”.
The singer’s court hearing is scheduled for next Monday morning, although she is not required to appear in person because it is a minor charge.
“Whether Spears will attend the hearing will be decided between her and her attorney,” the district attorney’s office said.
According to the prosecutor’s office, such charges generally do not carry a prison sentence when the incident did not result in an accident or injury and there is no history of similar crimes.
Prosecutors usually allow defendants to plead guilty to the lesser charge of reckless driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Spears will be offered this option, said Joey Buttita, from the district attorney’s office. Defendants typically receive 12 months of probation and must complete a DUI class, as well as pay fines and fees.
Following the arrest, Britney Spears reportedly checked herself into a rehabilitation treatment facility.
his representative told BBC At that time, “Britney will do the right thing and follow the law and hopefully this can be the first step in a long-overdue change in Britney’s life. Hopefully, she can get the help and support she needs during this difficult time.”
