Britney Spears gets 1-day jail, therapy after pleading guilty in drink-driving case

Pop singer Britney Spears pleaded guilty on Monday to a reduced charge linked to her Southern California drink driving case, with her lawyer saying the focus is now on her recovery and moving forward. The 44-year-old singer entered the plea through her attorney, Michael A Goldstein, in Ventura County Superior Court. Spears was not present at the hearing, which is allowed in misdemeanour cases.

Ventura County Commissioner Matthew Nemerson sentenced Spears to 12 months’ probation and one day in jail. She was also ordered to pay mandatory fines, complete a three-month state-approved DUI (Driving Under Influence) education programme, attend weekly therapy sessions and meet a psychiatrist twice a month. The plea takes the case a step closer to closure after her March arrest.

What happened in court

Spears pleaded guilty to what is commonly known as a “wet reckless”, a reduced reckless driving charge under the California Vehicle Code. After the hearing, Goldstein said, “I don’t think anybody’s happy about pleading guilty to anything, but under the circumstances, to get this behind her, I think everybody is pleased with the result.” He added, “We appreciate the district attorney recognising the positive steps that Britney is taking to help herself.”

As part of the conditions, Spears waived her search and seizure rights. This means authorities can inspect her vehicle for drugs or alcohol if she is stopped again. Officials said she had been formally charged last week with one misdemeanour count of driving under the combined influence of alcohol and at least one drug.

How the case unfolded

The case stems from Spears’ arrest by the California Highway Patrol on March 4. Officers reportedly stopped her for erratic driving, noticed signs of impairment and carried out field sobriety tests before arresting her on suspicion of driving under the influence. She was booked at around 3 am on March 5 and released shortly after 6 am. Jail records described it as a “cite and release”.

Authorities completed their investigation on March 23 before sending the case to prosecutors.

Last month, Spears voluntarily checked herself into a substance abuse treatment facility after the incident. Goldstein said she has since completed rehabilitation and returned home, and called reports suggesting otherwise “false”. Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said DUI remained a “serious crime” but said Spears had taken “full responsibility” for her actions.

Instagram post on spiritual journey

In her latest Instagram post, Spears wrote about her spiritual journey. She said she had gone to a pet store with her children and seen a baby snake, which she described as a symbol of “good health, higher consciousness, and pure luck."

She also said she was thankful for her friends and the new people she had met, and wrote that she was still learning how to be kind to herself.