Veteran soap actress Colleen Zenk, 73, was arrested in Naples, Florida, on May 15 on two DUI-related misdemeanour charges, marking the third time she has faced a DUI arrest in 16 years. The charges include DUI causing damage to property or another person and DUI with a blood alcohol level of 0.15 or higher, according to records from the Collier County Sheriff's Office.
Details of the Incident
Police alleged the incident began when a witness saw Zenk's vehicle make contact with another car as she reversed out of a disabled parking bay near a Tommy Bahama store. According to police, Zenk initially continued reversing as if to leave before stopping after a witness alerted her. The witness told officers the actress appeared to stumble as she exited the vehicle.
Zenk allegedly told responding officers she had consumed two cups of wine at nearby restaurant Bar Tulia before driving. She agreed to field sobriety tests but reportedly struggled to maintain her balance during several exercises, including a walking assessment. Officers claimed an eye movement test showed rapid, uncontrollable side-to-side movements, and they expressed concern she could fall due to swaying.
Arrest and Charges
Following roadside assessments and witness statements, police arrested Zenk. Breath samples later recorded readings of 0.206 and 0.192, well above the legal limit. Her vehicle was towed, and her pet dog was taken to an animal services facility. Zenk was released from custody on May 16 after posting bond.
Zenk has denied the allegations. In a statement to People, her representative said: "The charges are being defended. Ms. Zenk has not been convicted of anything. The truth will be played out in court." Through her lawyer, she has entered a not guilty plea. A pre-trial hearing is set for July 29, 2026.
Previous DUI Arrests
This is Zenk's third DUI arrest in 16 years. She was charged with a first-offence DUI in Collier County, Florida, in May 2017, and arrested in April 2010 in Wilton, Connecticut, after police alleged erratic driving into an oncoming lane.
Despite the legal proceedings, Zenk returned to daytime television in late 2023, joining The Young and the Restless after As the World Turns ended in 2010. Her most recent appearance aired in January 2025.
