Britney Spears Charged with DUI in California

By Lila Roberts, Entertainment Editor

April 30, 2026

Pop Star Faces Misdemeanor Charge Following March Arrest

Britney Spears has been charged with one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office announced on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Rolling Stone first reported the charge, which stems from an arrest on March 4, 2026.

Details of the Arrest and Investigation

Spears was initially pulled over by the California Highway Patrol on U.S. 101 near her home after reports of a black BMW being driven erratically and at a high speed. According to authorities, she exhibited signs of impairment and subsequently underwent field sobriety tests. She was then arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of a combination of alcohol and drugs and taken into custody at a Ventura County jail before being released on bail the following day.

The California Highway Patrol completed its investigation and presented the findings to prosecutors on March 23, 2026.

Potential Plea Deal and Treatment

Prosecutors intend to offer Spears a “wet reckless” plea deal, a common resolution for first-time DUI offenders with low blood alcohol levels and no involvement in crashes or injuries. This would allow her to plead guilty to reckless driving involving alcohol and/or drugs.

The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office noted that this type of resolution is often considered when a defendant is proactively addressing underlying issues, such as through rehabilitation. Spears voluntarily checked into a substance abuse treatment facility shortly after her arrest.

Upcoming Court Date

Spears is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Ventura County Superior Court. Her appearance is not mandatory, and her attorney can appear on her behalf.

If Spears accepts the plea deal, she could face 12 months of probation, fines, completion of a DUI class, and credit for any time already served in custody.

A representative for Spears had no immediate comment.