Shia LaBeouf Arrested in New Orleans for Alleged Homophobic Attack

Victims say the actor used slurs, sparking possible hate crime review

Feb. 24, 2026 at 5:07pm

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Shia LaBeouf, 39, was arrested in New Orleans on Tuesday on two counts of simple battery after an incident at a bar in the Marigny neighborhood. Drag performer Jeffrey Damnit and queer-identifying Nathan Thomas Reed allege that LaBeouf used homophobic slurs against them during the altercation, potentially escalating the charges to a hate crime.

Why it matters

LaBeouf's alleged use of homophobic language during the incident raises concerns about bias-motivated crimes and the need for greater LGBTQ+ acceptance, especially in the context of a major cultural event like Mardi Gras.

The details

According to reports, LaBeouf tried to attack Damnit at a bar while repeatedly using the homophobic f-slur. Damnit shared video showing LaBeouf in the back of a vehicle also using the slur. Reed, who identifies as queer, says LaBeouf directed the same word at him. LaBeouf was arrested and released on his own recognizance that afternoon.

  • LaBeouf was arrested on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Shia LaBeouf

A 39-year-old actor who was arrested in New Orleans on charges of simple battery.

Jeffrey Damnit

A drag performer who alleges LaBeouf used homophobic slurs against him during the incident.

Nathan Thomas Reed

A queer-identifying individual who also alleges LaBeouf used homophobic language against him.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to use hate speech and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, especially during a time of celebration like Mardi Gras.”

— Jeffrey Damnit, Drag performer

What’s next

The district attorney's office is reviewing the incident to determine if the charges should be elevated to a hate crime.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater LGBTQ+ acceptance and the importance of addressing bias-motivated crimes, even among public figures, to create a more inclusive and equitable society.