Officer Michael Arkinson: A Rising Star in Law Enforcement

In January 2024, Officer Michael Arkinson of the Sag Harbor Village Police Department was named Officer of the Year, a remarkable achievement given that he had only joined the force in March of the previous year. This recognition highlighted his immediate and significant impact on both the department and the community. Chief Rob Drake praised Arkinson for his positive attitude, initiative, and dedication to improving his skills, which quickly made him a standout officer. Arkinson’s accomplishments include leading the department in summonses and arrests, with one of his most notable cases being the arrest of pop superstar Justin Timberlake for driving under the influence (DUI) in the affluent Hamptons area.

The Arrest That Made Headlines: Justin Timberlake’s DUI Incident

In June 2024, Officer Arkinson made headlines after pulling over Justin Timberlake, the Grammy-winning singer, for driving erratically in Sag Harbor. Arkinson observed Timberlake’s 2025 BMW SUV blow through a stop sign and swerve out of his lane. The singer, who had been enjoying a night out with friends at the upscale American Hotel, admitted to having “one martini” but claimed he was following his friends home when he was stopped. However, Arkinson’s observations told a different story. He noted in a criminal complaint that Timberlake appeared intoxicated, with bloodshot and glassy eyes, and struggled to follow instructions during a field sobriety test. Despite his condition, Timberlake declined to take a Breathalyzer test three times. Interestingly, Arkinson, who was relatively new to the force and just 24 years old at the time, was so focused on his duties that he didn’t even recognize the famous singer during the stop.

The Aftermath of the Arrest and Its Legal Consequences

The DUI charge against Timberlake, while significant, was ultimately reduced to a lesser charge of driving while ability impaired after he pleaded guilty. He was also cited for running a stop sign. In August 2024, Timberlake initially pleaded not guilty to the DUI charge, which led to his license being suspended in New York. However, he later accepted a plea deal to avoid rehabilitation treatment. As part of the agreement, Timberlake was required to complete 25 hours of community service, make a public statement about the incident, and pay a $500 fine along with a $260 surcharge. In a statement made the following September, Timberlake expressed remorse, calling the incident a “mistake” and hoped that others could learn from it.

A Dedicated Officer with a Strong Work Ethic

Officer Arkinson’s dedication to his job and commitment to public safety were evident long before his encounter with Justin Timberlake. A Long Island native, Arkinson graduated from Southampton High School and later pursued higher education at Roger Williams University. His journey in law enforcement began in 2017 when he took on a part-time role as a traffic control officer. This early experience likely shaped his strong work ethic and attention to detail, qualities that would later define his career as a police officer. Arkinson’s newfound reputation as a no-nonsense enforcer of the law earned him the nickname “Sag Harbor Nazi” among locals, who both respected and feared his strict approach to policing.

A Hero in the Community

Arkinson’s contributions to the community extend beyond his high-profile arrest of Justin Timberlake. Just days before the incident, he sprang into action to save a 25-year-old local who was overdosing. His quick thinking and decisive action likely saved a life, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and compassionate officer. This act of heroism, coupled with his rigorous enforcement of the law, demonstrates Arkinson’s commitment to protecting and serving his community. His ability to balance firmness with compassion has made him a respected figure in Sag Harbor.

Conclusion: The Legacy of a Young Officer

Officer Michael Arkinson’s story is one of dedication, hard work, and making a difference in his community. From his early days as a traffic control officer to his current role as a respected police officer, Arkinson has proven himself to be a rising star in law enforcement. His arrest of Justin Timberlake, while sensationalized in the media, is just one example of his commitment to upholding the law and ensuring public safety. As he continues his career, Arkinson’s legacy as a dedicated and impactful officer is sure to grow, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.