Singer Britney Spears' team has pushed back against allegations that the pop star exhibited 'erratic' behaviour at a Los Angeles restaurant. TMZ reported that Spears was seen holding a knife while walking past another table of guests at Blue Dog Tavern in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles. The publication also claimed the singer was observed making barking noises.
Representative's Statement
In a statement to People magazine, Spears' representative asserted that the reports were 'completely blown out of proportion'. The rep explained that Spears was enjoying a quiet dinner with her assistant and bodyguard and was simply telling a story about how her dog was barking at the neighbours. 'At no point did she put anyone in danger with a knife. She was cutting her hamburger in half,' the representative added.
TMZ's Initial Report
On Thursday, TMZ first reported claims from sources that Spears was eating at the restaurant when 'things got erratic fast — with barking, yelling and even a knife involved'. The US media outlet claimed Spears was seen raising her voice, while a witness described the scene as 'chaotic' and 'kind of sad'. TMZ alleged that at one point, a restaurant patron reported that Spears walked by their table holding a knife, sparking fear she might accidentally stab someone. The witness suggested Spears may have simply forgotten to put it down at her table.
Team's Strong Rebuttal
Spears' team disputed the claims, labelling them an 'attack' on the singer. The statement continued: 'This constant attack on everything that she does and this is exactly what happened 20 years ago when the media tried to depict Britney as a bad person. This is ridiculous and it needs to stop now.'
Recent Legal Issues
The reports come just two weeks after Spears pleaded guilty to reckless driving, after initially facing a more serious charge of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The singer's lawyers entered the plea on her behalf, with Spears accepting the lesser charge of 'wet reckless' and avoiding jail time. Spears was reportedly sentenced to 12 months of summary probation and one day in jail, credited as time served. She was also fined $US571 and ordered to attend a three-month DUI program requiring 30 hours of class time.
Background on DUI Arrest
Spears was originally charged with a single count of driving under the influence after California Highway Patrol officers arrested her in March. Police tracked down Spears and her vehicle following reports of a motorist driving erratically at high speed in a black BMW in Ventura County. She was taken into custody after officers observed signs of impairment, according to the Highway Patrol at the time. The singer was released the following day, with her representative later describing the 'unfortunate incident' as 'completely inexcusable'.
