Shia LaBeouf Accused of Alleged Hate Crime After Mardi Gras Incident

The Transformers star was arrested for battery and accused of using anti-LGBTQ slurs during a confrontation in New Orleans.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Transformers actor Shia LaBeouf was arrested in New Orleans during the city's Mardi Gras celebrations and is now being accused of an alleged hate crime. A local event host claims LaBeouf used anti-LGBTQ slurs, assaulted multiple people, and had to be restrained as he continued shouting and trying to fight others. LaBeouf was released on his own recognizance, which the accuser says sends a "terrible message."

Why it matters

LaBeouf's alleged actions during the Mardi Gras incident raise concerns about public safety, hate crimes, and the treatment of high-profile individuals accused of misconduct, especially in the context of a major cultural event like Mardi Gras.

The details

According to the report, LaBeouf first encountered local event host Jeffrey "Dammit" and allegedly "smashed into him, knocking him into some boxes." LaBeouf then reportedly started shouting, using anti-LGBTQ slurs, and threatening to "kick his ass." Later at a bar, LaBeouf is accused of screaming slurs at bartenders, punching one in the face and breaking his nose, and having to be physically restrained as he continued trying to fight people.

  • On Tuesday during Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, LaBeouf was arrested on two charges of simple battery.
  • In the early hours of Tuesday morning, the alleged incidents took place at various locations in New Orleans.

The players

Shia LaBeouf

An American actor known for his roles in the Transformers film series and other movies.

Jeffrey "Dammit"

A master of ceremonies at various New Orleans events and a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG).

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What they’re saying

“He smashed into me, knocking me into some boxes. Then he turned around screaming, 'Don't you f*cking push me. I'll kill you.' I hadn't touched him”

— Jeffrey "Dammit", Event host (The Hollywood Reporter)

“He said he'd 'kick my ass' and called me a f*ggot. I told him I wasn't going to fight him. I wasn't giving him that.”

— Jeffrey "Dammit", Event host (The Hollywood Reporter)

“He was screaming at a bartender and had to be escorted outside. Once outside, he started pacing in the street, yelling, 'You're all a bunch of [frick]ing faggots. I'll kick your ass.'”

— Jeffrey "Dammit", Event host (The Hollywood Reporter)

“He kept trying to get up and fight people. He wouldn't stop screaming slurs. That's why I say this wasn't just a bar fight. This was about hate.”

— Jeffrey "Dammit", Event host (The Hollywood Reporter)

What’s next

It is unclear what, if any, impact this latest legal issue will have on LaBeouf's upcoming film projects.

The takeaway

LaBeouf's alleged actions during the Mardi Gras incident raise serious concerns about hate crimes, public safety, and the treatment of high-profile individuals accused of misconduct, especially in the context of a major cultural event.