Kiefer Sutherland, the Emmy-winning actor known for his role in 24, was arrested early Monday following an alleged altercation with a ride-share driver in Hollywood during the late-night hours.
The arrest has drawn attention to his history of legal troubles spanning more than three decades, reviving public scrutiny of his past encounters with law enforcement.
Bond Set at $50,000
Sutherland was released from custody after posting $50,000 bail shortly following his arrest.
He faces allegations of assault and felony criminal threats in connection with the incident, charges that could carry serious legal consequences if pursued.
Actor’s Background
Kiefer Sutherland, 59, is the son of the late Donald Sutherland, who died in June 2024. He built his career on iconic roles including Jack Bauer in 24, a performance that earned him both an Emmy and a Golden Globe.
His filmography includes Stand by Me, The Lost Boys, A Few Good Men, and Designated Survivor. His first arrest for DUI occurred in 1989 in Los Angeles, marking the beginning of a long public legal history.
Legal History
Sutherland’s arrest record includes a 1989 DUI arrest with a concealed weapon charge dropped after a no-contest plea to reckless driving, a 1993 DUI conviction resulting in 211 hours of community service, and a 2004 DUI that led to probation and additional community service.
In 2007, he served 48 days in jail for violating DUI probation. A 2009 assault charge was later dismissed after a joint statement with designer Jack McCollough, and in 2020 he was arrested again for DUI after making an illegal U-turn in Hollywood.
Arrest Details
Kiefer Sutherland was arrested early Monday, January 12, 2026, at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in Hollywood by the LAPD’s Hollywood Division.
He was booked on suspicion of assaulting a ride-share driver and making felony criminal threats. Bail was set at $50,000, and his court date is scheduled for February 2, 2026. Authorities confirmed the driver did not require medical treatment.
Location Context
The arrest occurred at a busy Hollywood intersection known for heavy nighttime traffic and late-hour congestion.
The area frequently serves as a hub for ride-share pickups and drop-offs, particularly during overnight hours.
Driver’s Account
The unnamed ride-share driver called 911 around 12:15 AM, reporting that he was fleeing from the suspect following the encounter.
According to police, the driver claimed he had been assaulted but did not require medical attention. LAPD later confirmed that the driver was not injured during the incident.
Ride-Share Safety Context
Uber and Lyft have faced increased scrutiny in recent years over driver and passenger safety concerns. Uber’s 2019 safety report documented nearly 6,000 sexual assault incidents over a two-year period in the United States.
In response, California regulators have pushed for enhanced safety features, including panic buttons and improved monitoring tools, which both platforms have since implemented.
Prior Assault Case
This is not Sutherland’s first assault allegation. In 2009, he was charged with assault after an alleged headbutt incident involving fashion designer Jack McCollough at a New York City party.
The charges were ultimately dismissed after both parties issued a joint statement indicating the matter had been resolved.
Alleged Threats
According to TMZ, citing law enforcement sources, Sutherland repeatedly demanded the driver pull over and allegedly threatened to kill him during the encounter.
Rolling Stone reported that a source familiar with the investigation said the threats were made when the driver did not immediately stop. A language barrier may have played a role, as the driver requested a Russian or Armenian translator. No formal charges have yet been filed by the District Attorney.
No Comment from Representatives
Sutherland’s representatives have not responded to requests for comment from ABC News and other media outlets.
As of the most recent reports, no official statement has been released on his behalf.
Past Apologies
Following the 2009 incident with Jack McCollough, Sutherland issued a statement saying, “I am sorry… I sincerely regret,” acknowledging his role in the situation.
In a 2006 Rolling Stone interview discussing his DUI arrests, he also expressed regret, stating that he had embarrassed his family, particularly his daughter.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Sutherland is scheduled to appear in Los Angeles court on February 2, 2026, in connection with the current allegations.
The LAPD investigation remains ongoing, and the District Attorney’s office will decide whether to formally file charges.
Past Reflections on Struggles
In a 2016 interview, Sutherland acknowledged his personal struggles, saying there were moments when he felt things had gotten away from him.
He described his life and career as a continual push and pull, reflecting on periods of difficulty and recovery.
Career Impact Unclear
The impact of the arrest on Sutherland’s career remains uncertain as the legal process unfolds.
He has previously returned to work after legal setbacks, including resuming filming 24 following his 2007 jail sentence.
Ongoing Ride-Share Safety Discussions
California continues to debate ride-share worker protections, building on Proposition 22 and earlier regulatory efforts.
The state has mandated safety features such as panic buttons and real-time trip tracking to improve protections for drivers and passengers.
International Coverage
The London-born Canadian actor’s arrest has received widespread international media attention.
Outlets in the United Kingdom and Canada have highlighted his family background and a career that has spanned both sides of the Atlantic.
Potential Charges
Sutherland was arrested on suspicion of felony criminal threats and assault, though no formal charges have yet been filed.
The LAPD investigation includes reviewing 911 audio recordings and witness statements, which will be evaluated by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office.
Public Response
The arrest has generated significant discussion on social media regarding celebrity accountability and public behavior.
Much of the commentary contrasts Sutherland’s heroic on-screen persona as Jack Bauer with his off-screen legal troubles.
Conclusion
The case underscores ongoing concerns about safety for gig economy workers, particularly ride-share drivers who may face unpredictable risks from passengers.
The outcome of the investigation and any potential charges against Sutherland will become clearer in the coming weeks as the February 2 court date approaches.
Sources:
BBC News, “Actor Kiefer Sutherland arrested over alleged assault of ride-share driver”, 13 Jan 2026
NBC News, “Kiefer Sutherland arrested and accused of assaulting ride-share driver in Los Angeles”, 13 Jan 2026
LA Times, “Kiefer Sutherland arrested, allegedly assaulted ride-hail driver”, 12 Jan 2026
Fox News, “Kiefer Sutherland’s troubled legal past resurfaces after rideshare altercation ends in arrest”, 15 Jan 2026
TMZ, “Kiefer Sutherland Arrested for Allegedly Telling Uber Driver ‘Pull Over or I’ll Kill You'”, 13 Jan 2026
Rolling Stone, “Kiefer Sutherland Asked Uber Driver to Pull Over Before Arrest”, 14 Jan 2026