Actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested early Tuesday morning in Recent Orleans and is accused of battery after allegedly attacking two men at a bar, one of whom identifies as queer and another who was dressed in drag.
Allegations of Assault and Homophobic Slurs
Jeffrey Damnit, identified by police as one of the victims, stated that LaBeouf attempted to attack him whereas shouting, “You’re a fucking faggot.” Damnit shared a video showing LaBeouf in the back of a vehicle, appearing to glance at Damnit and repeat the slur. Damnit can be heard responding, “Preserve on calling me faggot.”
Nathan Thomas Reed, the other man named by police as a victim, stated he wants it to be known that LaBeouf was “calling people faggot,” including himself, and that he identifies as a queer man.
An initial police report alleged LaBeouf said, “These faggots set me in jail,” while referencing his Catholic faith, though this detail was not included in the official arrest affidavit.
Aftermath and Reactions
Following his release, LaBeouf was seen on Bourbon Street dancing with Mardi Gras beads and his release papers. He told a reporter from WAFB, “God bless you, guys – Mardi Gras is amazing,” and that the best part of the celebration was the compelling people he had met.
LaBeouf posted cryptically on X at approximately 4:30 am local time on Ash Wednesday, writing, “Free me.”
Damnit expressed hope that the Screen Actors Guild president, Sean Astin, would investigate whether it is safe for LaBeouf to work with other union members, stating, “At any other day job, that would happen.”
Kyle DeVries, president of the New Orleans Pride Center, noted the allegations come at a precarious time for the LGBTQ+ community, coinciding with a documented rise in attacks based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Previous Legal Issues and Background
LaBeouf previously settled a lawsuit with FKA twigs, who accused him of sexual battery, assault, and infliction of emotional distress, allegations he denied. He has also publicly discussed his struggles with sobriety and past court-mandated rehab following a 2017 arrest in Savannah, Georgia.
Reports of unruly behavior by LaBeouf in New Orleans leading up to Mardi Gras had surfaced in the days prior to his arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Shia LaBeouf facing?
LaBeouf was booked with two counts of simple battery.
What did the victims say happened?
Jeffrey Damnit and Nathan Thomas Reed both allege LaBeouf used homophobic slurs and physically assaulted them at a bar in New Orleans.
When is LaBeouf’s next court date?
LaBeouf’s next hearing in New Orleans criminal court is tentatively scheduled for March 19.
As the investigation continues, will the entertainment industry address these allegations and what impact might they have on LaBeouf’s career?
