AceShowbiz - Britney Spears has been formally charged with driving under the influence involving both drugs and alcohol, according to a statement from the Ventura County District Attorney's Office on Thursday.

The charges specify a single misdemeanor count related to operating a vehicle under the combined influence of alcohol and at least one drug. This development follows Spears’ arrest on March 4 in Southern California, where she was detained for DUI and subsequently released from jail the next day.

The Hollywood Reporter reached out to a representative for Britney Spears for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

A spokesperson for the singer described the incident as regrettable and unacceptable. They emphasized that Spears intends to comply fully with the law and take the necessary steps to address the situation. The representative also noted the importance of support from her family during this challenging period, highlighting that her children will be spending time with her and that her loved ones are devising a plan to ensure her well-being and future success.

Earlier this month, reports emerged that the "Oops!... I Did It Again" singer voluntarily entered a rehabilitation program. Her arraignment is scheduled for Monday, though prosecutors indicated that because the charge is a misdemeanor and she has no prior DUI convictions, Spears will not need to appear in court personally. Instead, her attorney can represent her during the proceedings.

Prosecutors also clarified that the case will be reviewed in accordance with standard protocols for defendants who have no prior DUI record, were not involved in any crashes or injuries, and exhibited a low blood-alcohol level at the time of arrest.

The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office explained that under the law, a defendant in such cases may plead guilty to reckless driving related to alcohol and/or drugs. This resolution is typically offered when a person shows genuine motivation to seek help through rehabilitation or a treatment program.

Should Spears accept this offer, she would be placed on probation for 12 months, receive credit for any custody time served, be required to complete a DUI education class, and pay state-mandated fines and fees. This formal offer will be presented to her on Monday, according to the DA’s statement.

Britney Spears was released from a court-ordered conservatorship in 2021 after having been under its control since 2008. Following the removal of her father, Jamie Spears, as conservator of her estate, the pop icon publicly thanked her fans and acknowledged the impact of the #FreeBritney movement, which brought attention to her personal circumstances.

In a 2021 message posted on X, formerly Twitter, Spears expressed her deep gratitude, stating, "I have no words. Because of you guys and your constant resilience in freeing me from my conservatorship ... my life is now in that direction !!!!! I cried last night for two hours."