Actor Shia LaBeouf was placed on probation on Wednesday after admitting to assaulting three individuals outside a bar in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. LaBeouf received the probation sentence from an Orleans Parish judge, with the condition that he participates in an alcohol treatment program, as confirmed by Sarah Chervinsky, the actor’s lawyer.
LaBeouf, known for his lead roles in 2007’s “Transformers” and 2008’s “Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull,” had been released on bail after being arrested near the French Quarter of the city. Video footage of the incident on February 17 captured LaBeouf, shirtless, pushing one person to the ground outside a bar and hitting another individual in the face, potentially causing a nose injury, as noted in a New Orleans police report. The police reported that LaBeouf used homophobic language repeatedly, including during his arrest.
Having pleaded guilty to three counts of simple battery, LaBeouf was given a six-month suspended sentence and two years of probation by Orleans Parish Judge Juana Marine-Lombard. Additionally, he is required to maintain distance from the victims and the bar where the altercation took place.
Chervinsky expressed that LaBeouf took responsibility for his actions and described the incident as a “minor Mardi Gras bar scuffle,” emphasizing that there was no indication of bias or prejudice involved. Orleans Parish district attorney Jason Williams mentioned that the plea deal offered to LaBeouf was done in consultation with the victims to ensure their approval.
Local entertainer Jeffrey Damnit, also known as Jeffrey Klein, reported being one of the assaulted individuals by LaBeouf. He recounted LaBeouf pushing him and using derogatory language and threats earlier in the evening at the bar. Damnit’s attorney expressed hope that LaBeouf’s behavior would improve following substance abuse treatment, emphasizing equality and safety for all individuals in New Orleans.
LaBeouf has had multiple encounters with the law, including a previous order to attend drug and alcohol rehabilitation. In an interview with journalist Andrew Callaghan, he denied having a drinking problem and attributed his behavior during Mardi Gras to anger and ego rather than alcohol. LaBeouf also made controversial remarks about his discomfort around gay individuals.
The actor, who converted to Catholicism recently, has faced legal issues throughout his career, including arrests for assault, public drunkenness, disorderly conduct, and obstruction in various incidents. In 2020, he faced charges of battery and theft in Los Angeles, alongside a lawsuit from singer FKA Twigs accusing him of abuse during their relationship, which was settled in July. LaBeouf initially gained fame as a child actor on the Disney Channel series “Even Stevens.”
