Shia LaBeouf Ordered to Rehab Following Mardi Gras Incident

Shia LaBeouf, 39, was arrested on February 17, 2026, during Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, facing two counts of misdemeanor battery. The arrest stemmed from allegations that LaBeouf became aggressive at the R Bar, where he reportedly punched two men, Nathan Thomas Reed and Jeffrey Damnit, while hurling homophobic slurs at them. The incidents occurred shortly after midnight, and LaBeouf was subsequently taken into custody.

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On February 26, 2026, LaBeouf appeared in Orleans Parish Criminal Court before Judge Simone Levine, who expressed concern over his alcohol addiction and the implications of his actions on the safety of marginalized communities. LaBeouf was ordered to pay a $100,000 bond, enroll in substance abuse treatment, and undergo a drug testing program as conditions for his release. Judge Levine emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating, “This court does not believe he understands the level of seriousness when it comes to these allegations.”

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Kyle DeVries, president of New Orleans’s Pride Center, commended Judge Levine for holding LaBeouf accountable and called for him to make public apologies and take actions to support the LGBTQ+ community. DeVries highlighted the need for accountability in light of the violent nature of the incident.

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LaBeouf's attorney, Sarah Chervinsky, argued that the drug test conducted on LaBeouf did not indicate the presence of illegal substances, only showing evidence of past alcohol use. Despite this, Judge Levine expressed skepticism about LaBeouf's commitment to sobriety, citing his behavior during Mardi Gras celebrations, where he was seen partying shortly after his release. LaBeouf's history of erratic behavior and previous legal issues, including past arrests involving similar allegations, further complicate his current situation.

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LaBeouf is scheduled to return to court on March 19, 2026. The New Orleans district attorney's office has not yet indicated whether they will pursue hate crime charges against him, which could lead to enhanced penalties. Meanwhile, LaBeouf is required to stay away from the bar where the incident occurred and from the alleged victims.

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While LaBeouf's attorney maintains that he was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, the judge's remarks suggest a different perspective on his alcohol consumption and its implications for his behavior. The discrepancy between the attorney's claims and the judge's concerns highlights the complexities of the case.

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• “This court does not believe he understands the level of seriousness when it comes to these allegations,” — Judge Simone Levine

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• “taking action to ensure there is some accountability for this violent homophobic attack” — Kyle DeVries, President of New Orleans’s Pride Center

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• “I don’t think he’s stable. I don’t know that he’s been stable for a while.” — Anonymous production member

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LaBeouf's situation remains fluid as he navigates the legal consequences of his actions and the implications for his personal life and career.

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