Tiger Woods DUI Arrest: Body Cam Footage Released
Authorities in Florida have released compelling body camera footage detailing the arrest of golf legend Tiger Woods following a recent single-vehicle rollover crash. The incident has sparked widespread discussion, and the newly released video provides a firsthand look at the events leading to his arrest on charges of driving under the influence.
The Scene and Initial Interaction
The body cam footage, published by CNN affiliate WPBF, shows Woods kneeling beside the roadway, near his overturned SUV. He appears calm as he explains the incident to a responding officer. “I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden – boom,” Woods stated, describing the moments before the crash. An officer immediately advised him that a medic would be checking him out.
Field Sobriety Tests and Arrest
The video then captures Woods undergoing a field sobriety test. A deputy observed that Woods’ “normal faculties were impaired” and that he appeared to be under the influence of an unknown substance, leading to his arrest for DUI. During a search, two pills were discovered in his pocket and taken as evidence.
Details from the Arrest Affidavit
According to the arrest affidavit, Woods allegedly veered toward oncoming traffic and struck a trailer attached to another vehicle, causing his SUV to flip. He told deputies he was looking at his cell phone and adjusting the radio when the incident occurred. The affidavit details that Woods exhibited several errors during the field sobriety exercises, including starting before instructed and miscounting steps.
Substances Found and Medical History
Woods informed deputies he had not consumed alcohol but had taken prescription medications earlier in the day. The pills found in his pocket were identified as hydrocodone, a prescription opioid used to treat severe pain. Woods disclosed a history of multiple surgeries, including seven on his back and over 20 on his leg.
Test Results and Legal Proceedings
A breath test administered at the Martin County Jail registered 0.000, indicating no alcohol in his system. However, Woods refused to submit to a urine test to detect other substances. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test – both misdemeanors. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 5th.
Past Incidents and Current Status
This arrest echoes a similar incident in 2017, where prescription drugs were also found in Woods’ system. He pleaded guilty to reckless driving in that case. Recently, Woods announced he is “stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment” and will not be participating in this month’s Masters Tournament. He has expressed his desire to continue playing competitive golf, despite ongoing physical challenges. CNN is continuing to follow this developing story.
Source: CNN
