Tiger Woods Enters Not Guilty Plea in DUI Case Following Florida Crash
Golf icon Tiger Woods has formally pleaded not guilty to charges of driving under the influence, as detailed court documents from Martin County, Florida, confirm. The 15-time major winner was arrested after a high-speed incident on Friday, where he attempted to overtake a truck and rolled his Land Rover on a residential road in Jupiter Island.
Arrest Report Unveils Disturbing Details of the Incident
According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office incident report, deputies observed Woods with bloodshot eyes, glassy appearance, and dilated pupils at the crash scene. His movements were described as slow and lethargic during questioning. Officers discovered two white pills in his pocket, identified as the opioid hydrocodone, commonly used for pain management.
Woods admitted to taking prescription medications earlier that morning and stated he had been distracted by his phone and radio before clipping the truck. The crash resulted in the Land Rover rolling onto its side, causing $5,000 in damage to the truck and its pressure cleaner trailer. Fortunately, neither Woods nor the other driver reported any injuries.
Field Sobriety Tests and Legal Proceedings
During field sobriety tests, deputies noted Woods limping, wearing a compression sock on his right knee, and exhibiting hiccups and continuous head movements. He explained his medical history, including seven back surgeries and over 20 leg operations, which caused his ankle to seize up. A breathalyser test showed no alcohol, but Woods refused a urine test, leading to additional charges under Florida's new laws that penalize such refusals as misdemeanors.
Based on his impaired performance, deputies concluded Woods was unfit to operate a vehicle safely. He was arrested and released on bail after eight hours. Woods is scheduled for an arraignment hearing on April 23, with charges including property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
Context and Reactions
This incident adds to Woods' history of crashes, most notably a serious one in February 2021 that left him with severe leg and ankle injuries. Neither his representatives nor the PGA Tour, where he serves as a board member, have commented on the arrest. Sheriff John Budensiek highlighted signs of impairment observed after the crash, emphasizing the ongoing legal scrutiny.
