Shia LaBeouf Confronts Additional Battery Allegations in New Orleans
New Orleans police have secured a fresh arrest warrant for actor Shia LaBeouf, escalating the legal troubles stemming from a bar altercation earlier this year. This new development introduces a third battery charge against the Transformers star, who was already facing two counts from the same incident.
Escalation of Charges in Marigny Neighborhood Case
According to multiple sources, including Guardian reporting partner WWL Louisiana, the latest warrant accuses LaBeouf of committing simple battery on an additional individual. The Guardian independently confirmed this information with a criminal justice source familiar with the warrant. LaBeouf, 39, was initially arrested on 17 February after allegedly shouting homophobic slurs and assaulting multiple people at the R Bar in New Orleans's Marigny neighborhood around 12.45am, following a request to leave the premises.
After his initial arrest, LaBeouf was released on his own recognizance without posting bond. He was later spotted on Bourbon Street during the Mardi Gras festivities. The new warrant was issued on Friday, just one day after LaBeouf appeared in New Orleans criminal district court for a hearing on the original charges.
Court Proceedings and Judicial Concerns
During Thursday's hearing, Judge Simone Levine set a $100,000 bond for LaBeouf and mandated that he undergo drug testing and enroll in substance abuse treatment. LaBeouf complied with a drug and alcohol test at the courthouse. While Judge Levine did not disclose specific results, she expressed concern that the test indicated LaBeouf "does not take his alcohol addiction seriously."
LaBeouf, listed as a New Orleans resident in court records, posted the bond and quickly departed from reporters after the hearing. Neither New Orleans police nor LaBeouf's attorney have provided immediate comments regarding the new warrant.
This case highlights ongoing issues with celebrity conduct and legal accountability in high-profile incidents. As the situation develops, further updates are expected from law enforcement and judicial authorities in New Orleans.
