Actor Kiefer Sutherland was arrested early Monday morning in Hollywood after police say he assaulted a ride-share driver and made criminal threats. The incident happened just after midnight near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles. Officers responded to a call about an assault involving the driver. Sutherland, 59, entered the vehicle and then attacked the driver, according to police. No one needed medical treatment. He was booked on suspicion of felony criminal threats and released later that day on $50,000 bond. His first court date is set for February 2 in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
Background
Kiefer Sutherland has built a long career in film and television. He first gained notice in the 1980s with movies like Stand by Me and The Lost Boys. His role as Jack Bauer in the TV series 24 made him a household name. That show ran from 2001 to 2010 and earned him an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. Later, he starred in Designated Survivor as President Tom Kirkman. Sutherland comes from a family of actors. His father, Donald Sutherland, starred in films like MAS*H and The Hunger Games. His mother, Shirley Douglas, appeared in movies and TV shows before her death in 2020.
This arrest is not the first time Sutherland has faced legal trouble. Back in 2007, he served 48 days in jail after a DUI conviction. That case stemmed from a car crash outside a Los Angeles bar. He completed the sentence early through work release. Over the years, Sutherland has spoken about his past struggles with alcohol. He runs a ranch in Montana and has released country music albums. His latest projects include voice work and guest spots on TV shows. Fans know him for tough-guy roles, but off-screen, he keeps a low profile most of the time.
The Hollywood area where this happened is full of nightlife. Sunset Boulevard sees heavy traffic from clubs, restaurants, and rideshare pickups late at night. Ride-share drivers often deal with difficult passengers in that spot. Police from the Hollywood Division handle many such calls. This incident fits a pattern of late-night disputes in the neighborhood.
Key Details
Police got the call around 12:05 a.m. on January 12. The ride-share driver reported an assault. Sutherland got into the car, then things turned physical. He allegedly pushed or hit the driver and made threats that led to the felony charge. Felony criminal threats in California mean words or actions that make someone fear for their life. Officers arrived quickly and took Sutherland into custody at the scene.
Timeline of Events
- Just after midnight: Sutherland enters the ride-share vehicle near Sunset and Fairfax.
- Altercation starts: Driver calls police about assault.
- Officers arrive: Sutherland arrested on suspicion of assault and felony criminal threats.
- Booking: Held briefly at Los Angeles County Jail.
- Release: Posts $50,000 bond on Monday afternoon.
- Court: Scheduled for February 2.
Jail records confirm the details. The driver did not seek hospital care. LAPD has not released the driver's name to protect privacy. Investigators from the Hollywood Division are looking into witness statements and any video from the area. Street cameras and dash cams might provide more evidence.
"Officers responded to a radio call about an alleged assault involving a ride-share driver near Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue," LAPD spokesperson told reporters.
Sutherland's team has not commented publicly yet. Reporters reached out but got no response by Tuesday evening.
What This Means
Sutherland's arrest comes at a time when actors face quick public backlash. Social media spreads news fast, and fans react strongly. His role in 24 painted him as a hero who bends rules for justice. Now, real-life charges put that image at risk. Studios watch closely for such stories. Upcoming projects could face delays or rewrites if the case drags on.
The ride-share industry deals with violence often. Drivers report thousands of assaults each year nationwide. This case highlights risks for workers in gig jobs. Companies like Uber and Lyft have safety features like emergency buttons, but incidents still happen. Unions push for better protections in California.
Legally, felony criminal threats carry serious penalties. If convicted, Sutherland could face up to three years in prison. First-time offenders sometimes get probation. His past DUI might influence the judge. Court on February 2 will set the next steps, like plea deals or trial dates.
Hollywood has seen similar cases. Other stars faced arrests for bar fights or road rage. Some bounce back with apologies and community service. Sutherland's team might issue a statement soon. For now, the focus stays on the facts from police. The case could wrap quietly or turn into a bigger story. Either way, it marks a rough start to the year for the actor.
Police continue their work. They check for prior complaints about Sutherland or the driver. Neighbors near Sunset and Fairfax say late nights bring noise and trouble. This arrest adds to the area's reputation. Sutherland returns to his routine, but the court date looms large.
