Tiger Woods DUI Arrest: Police Report Details Pills and Phone Use Before Crash
Golf legend Tiger Woods was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) on March 27th after a car crash in Jupiter, Florida, with a newly emerged police report providing startling details. According to the report, obtained by TMZ, Woods had two loose hydrocodone pills in his pocket and admitted to looking at his mobile phone and changing the radio station moments before the incident.
Crash Scene Observations and Impairment Signs
The report describes how Woods' Range Rover SUV rolled over after clipping a trailer being hauled by a truck. At the scene, officers noted that Woods was "sweating profusely" and appeared "lethargic and slow," exhibiting "several signs of impairment." Upon removing his sunglasses, his eyes were observed to be "bloodshot and glassy" with "extremely dilated" pupils.
When questioned about prescription medication, Woods replied, "I take a few," and stated he was traveling from his home, located approximately five minutes from the crash site. A search revealed two white pills marked 'M367' in his left pants pocket, identified as hydrocodone—an opiate used for severe pain management.
Investigation and Charges Filed
Woods claimed he had taken his prescribed medication earlier that morning but denied consuming any illegal substances or alcohol. He agreed to a field sobriety test and a breathalyser, which registered zero alcohol, but refused to provide a urine sample. This refusal led to his arrest on three misdemeanour charges:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Destruction of property
- Failure to submit to a lawful test
He was held at Martin County Jail for eight hours, as per Florida state statute, and is scheduled to appear in court in April. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the crash, with Woods and the other driver both unharmed.
Official Statements from Law Enforcement
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek addressed the media outside the Jupiter Island Police Department, explaining the response to the crash. He stated that initial indications suggested impairment, prompting assistance from the Sheriff's Office due to their extensive experience in such investigations.
"Mr Woods did exemplify signs of impairment," Budensiek said. "They did several tests on him... and when it was determined, he was placed under arrest." He emphasized that alcohol was not suspected, as confirmed by the breathalyser results, but the refusal for urinalysis contributed to the DUI charge.
This incident adds to the challenges faced by the 50-year-old golf icon, whose career has been marred by previous injuries and surgeries, often requiring pain medication. The police report underscores the ongoing scrutiny of celebrity conduct and road safety, with Woods' case set to proceed through the legal system in the coming weeks.
