Reese Witherspoon has apologised for her recent "embarrassing" arrest.

The actress was charged with disorderly conduct over the weekend, after her husband Jim Toth was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Atlanta.

Witherspoon is said to have got into an argument with police officers on Friday night (April 19), apparently refusing to stay in the vehicle despite being told to do so twice.

She has since released a statement regarding the arrest, describing the arrest as "scary".

Witherspoon said: "Out of respect for the ongoing legal situation, I cannot comment on everything that is being reported right now."

"But I do want to say, I clearly had one drink too many and I am deeply embarrassed about the things I said. It was definitely a scary situation and I was frightened for my husband, but that is no excuse."

"I was disrespectful to the officer, who was just doing his job. I have nothing but respect for the police, and I'm very sorry for my behaviour."

A police report obtained by Variety states: "Mrs Witherspoon began to hang out the window and say that she did not believe I was a real police officer. I told Mrs Witherspoon to sit on her butt and be quiet."

"Mrs Witherspoon asked, 'Do you know my name?' I answered, 'No, I don't need to know your name.' I then added, 'Right now.' Mrs. Witherspoon stated, 'You're about to find out who I am.'..."

"Mrs Witherspoon also stated, 'You're going to be on national news.' I advised Mrs Witherspoon that was fine."

The couple were released from jail at around 3.30am on Saturday morning (April 20), and Witherspoon attended the New York premiere screening of Mud on Sunday evening (April 21).

Source: Press Release