Britney Spears charged in California with driving under influence

Prosecutors in California have filed a criminal charge against Britney Spears over her arrest last month for allegedly driving under the influence.

The pop star is facing one misdemeanour count of driving under the influence of any alcohol and drug. She was arrested on 4 March on a southern California highway after driving her BMW "erratically at a high rate of speed", authorities said.

Spears, 44, reportedly checked herself into a rehabilitation treatment facility afterwards. Her representatives have called the incident "completely inexcusable".

Her court arraignment is scheduled for next Monday morning, though she is not required to attend in person as it is a minor charge.

The Ventura County District Attorney's Office filed the charge against the singer on Thursday.

"Whether or not Ms Spears will appear at the hearing will be a decision made between her and her attorney," the district attorney's office said.