Toronto mayor Rob Ford has pledged his support for the embattled Justin Bieber.

The singer was charged with assaulting a driver earlier this week in the Canadian city - only days after being arrested in Miami for DUI, resisting arrest and driving without a valid licence.

Ford - who has been the subject of misdemeanours himself recently, such as drug use - told radio show The Sports Junkies that people should remember Bieber is only a teenager.

He added that the 'Believe' man should be praised for his considerable success at such a young age.

Ford said: "Well, you know what, he's a young guy. At 19 years old, I wish I was as successful as he was. He's 19 years old, guys. Think back to when you were 19."

Another Canadian mayor has backed Bieber too. The head of the singer's hometown Stratford, Dan Mathieson, commented:

"As far as I’m concerned, he is a 19-year-old person who has made some errors. I don’t condone them, but I also understand that we all have made errors in our life. I hope for his sake that he can get a reset, and get back to music and doing what he loves."

Bieber tweeted a link to Mathieson's words, adding: "Never forget where you come from or those who supported you before anyone else. Still the small town kid. Thanks."