Actor Shia LaBeouf received probation as part of his sentence after admitting to assaulting three individuals outside a bar in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. LaBeouf will need to complete an alcohol treatment program as directed by an Orleans Parish judge, as confirmed by Sarah Chervinsky, his attorney. LaBeouf, known for his roles in “Transformers” (2007) and “Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull” (2008), was initially released on bail after his arrest near the city’s French Quarter.
Footage of the incident on February 17 captured LaBeouf, shirtless, pushing one person to the ground and striking another in the face, potentially causing a dislocated nose, according to a report from the New Orleans police. Police reported that LaBeouf used homophobic language during the altercation and upon his arrest. LaBeouf pleaded guilty to three counts of simple battery.
Orleans Parish Judge Juana Marine-Lombard imposed a sentence of six months’ suspended jail time and two years of probation on the actor. LaBeouf is also required to maintain distance from the victims and the bar. Chervinsky stated that LaBeouf aimed to take responsibility for his actions, referring to the incident as a “minor Mardi Gras bar scuffle” devoid of bias or prejudice.
Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams mentioned that the victims were consulted to secure their approval before the plea deal was offered to LaBeouf. Jeffrey Damnit, identified by police as Jeffrey Klein, one of the assault victims, recounted being pushed and verbally abused by LaBeouf at the bar, expressing hope that LaBeouf’s conduct would improve post substance abuse treatment.
LaBeouf, who converted to Catholicism a few years ago, has had multiple encounters with law enforcement throughout his career, including arrests in New York City and Georgia. In a separate incident in Los Angeles in 2020, he faced misdemeanor battery and petty theft charges. Additionally, a lawsuit by singer and actor FKA Twigs accused LaBeouf of physical and emotional abuse in their relationship, which was settled in July of the same year. LaBeouf initially gained recognition as a young actor on the Disney Channel series “Even Stevens.”
