Shia LaBeouf Ordered to Rehab Following Mardi Gras Arrest

Actor Shia LaBeouf, 39, has been ordered to return to drug and alcohol rehabilitation and post a $100,000 bond after being charged with two counts of simple battery following an incident during Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans earlier this month. The ruling came from Orleans Parish Criminal Court Judge Simone Levine on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Details of the Arrest and Charges

According to police reports, LaBeouf was involved in an altercation outside a bar in the French Quarter on February 17, 2026. He allegedly struck two men, dislocating one victim’s nose . The actor was initially arrested and later released, but the charges and subsequent court order were issued after allegations of homophobic slurs attributed to LaBeouf surfaced.

Judge Levine’s Concerns

Judge Levine expressed significant concern over LaBeouf’s behavior, stating he “does not take his alcohol addiction seriously” and that his actions posed a risk to the community, particularly the LGBTQ+ community . She highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and the need for LaBeouf to address his substance abuse issues.

Court-Ordered Requirements

As part of his release conditions, LaBeouf must enroll in a substance abuse treatment program and submit to weekly drug testing, including random testing at the courthouse . He agreed to these terms and underwent a drug test during his court appearance, which reportedly did not show the presence of illegal substances .

Defense and Victim Testimony

LaBeouf’s attorney argued that “being drunk on Mardi Gras is not a crime,” but Judge Levine remained firm in her decision. Jeffrey Damnit, a local entertainer identified as one of the alleged victims, previously stated that LaBeouf repeatedly punched him and used homophobic slurs while threatening his life .

Ongoing Legal Process

LaBeouf has not yet entered a formal plea to the charges. Judge Levine likewise ordered him to refrain from contacting the two victims and visiting the bar where the incident occurred, and denied his requests to travel . Following the court order, LaBeouf briefly posted on social media, writing “Free me” .