Former NFL quarterback Tony Romo was found guilty of an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge after pleading no contest in a Wisconsin court on Tuesday. As a result, his driving privileges have been revoked for six months, and he has been ordered to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle registered to him.
Romo, 46, must also complete the Alcohol Assessment Program and pay $784 in court costs and a $50 fine. Failure to pay the full amount could lead to an additional license suspension of up to one year. Charges for unsafe passing on the right and possession of open intoxicants were dismissed.
In a statement released on Instagram, Romo described his no-contest plea as a "personal failure." He attributed his struggles to "constant, debilitating pain" from multiple back surgeries that ended his career prematurely. This pain, he explained, led to a dependence on pain medication, which in turn resulted in an "over-reliance on alcohol" as he attempted to wean himself off the medication.
"When you fall short, you stand up and take full responsibility," Romo stated, referencing a lesson he has taught his sons. He emphasized the importance of examining the path that led to his mistakes and making necessary changes. Romo acknowledged that the past month has been "difficult" but "personally significant," requiring him to "confront and own my mistakes fully." He expressed gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and the NFL community.
Romo is reportedly working with medical professionals to address his health. He requested privacy as he focuses on his well-being, family, and eventual return to his broadcasting role with CBS.
The incident leading to the charge occurred on July 23 when a Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office deputy pulled Romo over for an "unsafe passing" violation on I-43. According to the deputy's report, Romo appeared confused during the traffic stop and stated he was en route to his grandparents' house after spending the day golfing. The deputy initiated an OWI investigation based on Romo's driving, his origin, and observations including "red, glassy eyes and the odor of an intoxicating alcoholic beverage on his breath."
Despite Romo's initial assertion of having consumed "zero" alcoholic beverages, deputies found several "shooters" of alcohol and an open bottle in his vehicle. He was taken to the station, where he reportedly struggled with a field sobriety test. Bodycam footage captured Romo declining a breathalyzer test, stating he had been advised by lawyers not to submit to one and repeatedly asking for his lawyer.