Queen Latifah gets probation for reckless driving

Jet, Feb 3, 2003

Grammy-winning rapper and actress Queen Latifah recently was sentenced to three years probation and a $300 fine, after entering a plea of no contest to reckless driving.

The sentence results from the performer's 3:15 a.m. arrest on Nov. 20 in the Universal City area. A California Highway Patrol officer stopped her on the Hollywood Freeway for allegedly making an unsafe lane change (JET, Dec. 9, 2002).

Latifah failed a field sobriety test and was booked for investigation of driving under the influence of alcohol, said officer Alex Delgadillo.

Misdemeanor drunken-driving charges against her were dropped after she pleaded no contest to reckless driving.

"I am delighted the L.A. city attorney had dismissed both DUI charges against me, and I have taken full responsibility for reckless driving," Latifah, 32, said through a statement released by her New York publicist.

Defense attorney Blair Berk, who entered the plea on behalf of his client, said "I'm very pleased for her." Latifah, whose given name is Dana Elaine Owens, was not present.

A Superior Court judge sentenced the popular entertainer to three years probation. She must also pay a $300 fine and participate in a 12-hour alcohol education program, said city attorney's spokesman Frank Mateljan.

Latifah's most recent movie appearances include Brown Sugar, Chicago and the soon to be released comedy Bringing Down The House.