Justin Timberlake sues to prevent bodycam video of his DWI arrest from being released

Justin Timberlake is suing Sag Harbor to prevent the release of bodycam video of his June 2024 arrest for driving while intoxicated on Long Island. 

The suit claims there's eight hours of footage involved, including the initial stop. The lawsuit claims the video shows Timberlake "in an acutely vulnerable state" and captures "intimate details of [Timberlake's] physical appearance, demeanor, speech and conduct" during the incident. The suit claims release of the footage "would cause severe and irreparable harm" to Timberlake's reputation, and make him subject "to public ridicule and harassment, and serve no legitimate public interest." 

Timberlake, 45, filed the lawsuit as Sag Harbor was poised to release the footage as a result of a Freedom of Information Law request. 

A conference was held in Suffolk County court Monday for the parties involved to try to reach an agreement. The judge took no immediate formal action. 

"We're trying to be as transparent as can be with this footage," Sag Harbor Mayor Thomas Gardella told the Associated Press, one of the media outlets that requested the video be released. 

Timberlake ultimately pleaded guilty to driving while ability impaired, a lesser charge. The DWI charge against him was dropped. He was sentenced to a fine and community service, and he was required to make a public safety announcement, which he did immediately after he formally agreed to the plea deal. 

"This is a mistake that I've made, but I'm hoping whoever's watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have. And like I said, even one drink, don't get behind the wheel of a car," Timberlake said at the time.