Shia LaBeouf Breaks Silence After Arrest & Battery Charges
What To Know
- Shia LaBeouf was arrested in New Orleans on February 17, 2026, and charged with two counts of simple battery.
- Following his arrest, LaBeouf posted a cryptic “Free me” message on X, prompting confusion and concern from his followers about his well-being and sobriety.
- LaBeouf was released on his own recognizance after a virtual court hearing, with his next court date set for March 19.
Shia LaBeouf broke his silence after he was arrested in New Orleans on Mardi Gras and charged with two counts of battery.
On Wednesday, February 18, the Even Stevens actor, 39, took to X with a cryptic message, writing, “Free me.” Many of LaBeouf’s followers expressed confusion in the comments, with some advising him to stop drinking or turn to religion.
So, what happened?
Free me
— Shia LaBeouf (@thecampaignbook) February 18, 2026
On Tuesday, February 17, LaBeouf was arrested after law enforcement was called at roughly 12:45 a.m. “in response to a simple battery where two victims (two adult males) reported being assaulted,” police said in a statement, per ABC News.
The statement continued, “Investigators say a man identified as 39-year-old Shia LaBeouf was reportedly causing a disturbance and becoming increasing[ly] aggressive at a Royal Street business.”
A staff member at the business allegedly attempted to remove LaBeouf from the building. However, the Transformers actor allegedly struck one of the victims with “closed fists” multiple times. Police said LaBeouf allegedly left the area but returned.
“He was eventually let up in hopes that he would leave — but he reportedly again struck the same victim with closed fists to the victim’s upper body,” the NOPD reported. “LaBeouf then reportedly assaulted another person — punching him in the nose.”
Nick Spano, Tom Virtue, Christy Romano, Donna Pescow, and Shia LaBeouf in ‘Even Stevens’ (Brookwell-McNamara Entertainment/Everett Collection)
At that point, LaBeouf was reportedly “held down” until officers arrived. He was reportedly taken to a hospital “for treatment of unspecified injuries” before his arrest. LaBeouf was charged with two counts of simple battery.
The Honey Boy star appeared for a virtual hearing at noon on Tuesday and was released on his own recognizance by Judge Simone Levine, according to The Hollywood Reporter. His next court date was set for March 19.
In 2022, LaBeouf claimed to be sober following a string of alcohol-related arrests, settling a lawsuit with his ex, FKA Twigs, and multiple rehab stints.
Even Stevens aired on the Disney Channel for three seasons from June 17, 2000, to June 2, 2003
Even Stevens, streaming on Disney+