Actor Shia LaBeouf apologized after police released footage of his July 8 arrest in Savannah, Georgia. In the footage LaBeouf told a policeman that he was going to hell because he’s black. He also criticized white police officers for arresting him as a white man as he cursed and insulted them.
The incident is the latest in a career that has been full of missteps and adversity. LaBeouf released a statement via twitter—an apology and appreciation for police restraint. He also mentions his struggles with addiction.
— Shia LaBeouf (@thecampaignbook) July 12, 2017
Although the arrest in question took place on July 8, LeBeouf only made the effort to apologize hours after the video was published. News of the arrest on the day it first occurred was published by TMZ, and then the follow up with police bodycam footage and station footage was published on July 12.
A report from the Savannah Chatham Metropolitan Police states that LeBeouf became aggressive and used profanity in front of women and children and a police officer after asking for a cigarette.
A crime report from police that cannot be verified but is reflected in other media reports states he was told to leave the area multiple times. He refused and cursed at the officer in the presence of children 8 and 10 years old. After the officer attempted to cuff him, he headed to the lobby of a hotel, where an arrest was attempted again. More police arrived and then successfully arrested him at 4 a.m.
LaBeouf is in Georgia filming “The Peanut Butter Falcon,” a movie also starring Dakota Johnson. He returned to acting duties after his release from police custody.
Colin Fredericson for NTD Television