Romo's DUI Incident
Tony Romo arrested for operating while intoxicated; body camera video released
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Body camera footage from the arrest of former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has been released, giving the public a firsthand look at the traffic stop that ended with Romo charged with operating while intoxicated, according to WBTV. The incident took place in Milwaukee County, where a sheriff's deputy pulled Romo over for allegedly cutting across a marked area in an "unsafe passing on the right" violation.
Romo told the deputy he had consumed "zero" drinks and said he was on his way to visit his grandparents, WAFB reported. Despite his denial, the deputy noted "red, glassy eyes and the odor of an intoxicating alcoholic beverage" coming from Romo's breath. Romo was taken to a nearby police station and charged with a first-offense OWI — the Wisconsin equivalent of a DUI.
The Traffic Stop That Triggered Romo's Arrest
A Milwaukee County sheriff's deputy pulled Romo over after spotting him make an unsafe lane move, cutting across a marked area on the right side. That initial stop quickly escalated when the deputy got close enough to observe Romo directly, according to Hawaii News Now. The deputy noted physical signs that suggested possible intoxication.
Romo pushed back on the deputy's suspicion, insisting he had not been drinking. He told the officer he was simply heading to spend time with his grandparents. Despite his explanation, the deputy's observations — red eyes, glassy appearance, and the smell of alcohol on his breath — were enough to move the stop to the next level.
Romo Charged With First-Offense OWI in Wisconsin
After being taken to a nearby police station, Romo was formally charged with operating while intoxicated — his first offense, WLOX reported. In Wisconsin, a first-offense OWI is treated as a civil violation, not a criminal charge. It typically carries fines and a possible license suspension rather than jail time.
Romo is best known for his 14-year career as the Dallas Cowboys' starting quarterback and his current role as a top NFL analyst for CBS Sports. The arrest adds a sudden off-field story to his otherwise well-regarded post-playing career. No statement from Romo or his representatives had been widely reported at the time the footage was released.
Body Camera Footage Puts the Encounter on the Record
The release of the body camera video lets the public see and hear the stop exactly as it unfolded. Footage like this has become a standard part of high-profile arrest stories, giving viewers direct access to what was said and how both sides behaved. KPLC was among the outlets that reported on the video's release.
The video shows Romo speaking calmly with the deputy during the stop. The clip adds detail to what was already reported in the arrest record, including his denial of drinking and his explanation about visiting family. The footage does not resolve the question of Romo's sobriety on its own — that will be determined through the legal process.
What Comes Next for Romo After the Charge
Because this is a first-offense OWI in Wisconsin, Romo faces a civil — not criminal — case. Penalties can include a fine of up to $300, court costs, and a license suspension of six to nine months, according to KALB. A first offense does not result in a permanent criminal record under Wisconsin law.
Romo's CBS Sports role and public profile mean the case will likely draw continued attention. Whether the charge affects his broadcasting career remains to be seen. So far, neither CBS Sports nor the NFL have commented publicly on the arrest or the release of the body camera footage, WBBJ TV reported.
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