Actor Shia LaBeouf has been charged with battery following an altercation at a New Orleans bar during the city’s Mardi Gras celebrations, where authorities say he repeatedly struck multiple patrons while allegedly using homophobic slurs, according to a police report obtained Thursday by The Associated Press.
The incident occurred in a crowded downtown bar amid the high-energy festivities, drawing attention due to LaBeouf’s celebrity status. Witnesses reportedly described the actor as aggressive and confrontational, striking several individuals while using offensive language. Police intervened on the scene, and the report indicates that law enforcement is continuing to investigate the full scope of the incident, including the number of victims and the severity of their injuries.
This is not LaBeouf’s first run-in with the law. The actor, who gained fame for his roles in Transformers, Fury, and Pieces of a Woman, has previously faced multiple public incidents of erratic behavior and legal challenges, including arrests for disorderly conduct and allegations of assault. Legal analysts say that the combination of physical assault and the use of hate-related slurs could lead to serious consequences, including fines and possible jail time if convicted.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the altercation to come forward to assist in the investigation. The New Orleans Police Department has indicated that additional charges could be filed depending on the outcome of ongoing inquiries and further witness statements.
Mardi Gras, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, has a long history of rowdy celebrations, and officials have often warned that high alcohol consumption and crowded venues can lead to confrontations. Experts in public safety say the LaBeouf incident underscores concerns about maintaining security and accountability during large-scale events where tensions can escalate quickly.
While LaBeouf’s representatives have not commented on the charges, the incident has reignited discussion about celebrity behavior in public spaces and the responsibilities of public figures in high-profile celebrations. Advocacy groups have also weighed in, emphasizing that hate speech and discriminatory language should not be tolerated in any context, especially during events where communities gather to celebrate.
The actor, 47, was reportedly cooperative when police took him into custody, though the police report describes a chaotic scene with multiple victims seeking medical attention. The case is expected to receive continued media attention given LaBeouf’s notoriety and the circumstances surrounding the incident during one of the city’s largest public festivities.
The Associated Press will continue to provide updates as authorities pursue the investigation and more details emerge.
