STUART, Fla. (AP) — Tiger Woods pleaded no contest to a reckless driving charge, resulting in a five-year suspension of his driver's license on Wednesday, following a March rollover crash in Florida. Initially, he faced accusations of driving under the influence.
Woods, 50, is a prominent figure in golf, having won his 15th major at the 2019 Masters. His career has faced challenges due to multiple surgeries and personal issues. He was arrested in March after his SUV collided with a truck and rolled over on a residential road near his home in Jupiter Island. A sheriff's report indicated that deputies found two pain pills in his pocket and noted signs of impairment. Although a Breathalyzer test returned negative, he refused to take a urine test.
Woods entered a not guilty plea to the original DUI charge. During the hearing in Martin County, he sat at the defense table and agreed to the reduced charge without making a statement to the press. He was accompanied by his girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, during the proceedings.
Mark Steinberg, Woods' manager, stated, "Tiger is not absolved of accountability and he surrendered his license for the next five years. He is continuing his treatment and prioritizing all aspects of his health."
The prosecutor mentioned that two toxicologists found insufficient evidence of impairment and noted that Woods had developed a "pharmacological" tolerance due to long-term use of pain medication. Thomas Bakkedahl, the state attorney, defended the plea agreement, stating, "I did what I think is right."
Prosecutors reviewed Woods' pharmacy records, which confirmed he had a lawful prescription. The arrest report indicated that deputies found two pills identified as hydrocodone, an opioid prescribed for pain. Woods acknowledged taking prescription medications, including Vicodin, which contains hydrocodone.
Woods also pleaded no contest to refusing to submit to testing after the crash, resulting in a $1,500 fine. A no-contest plea does not admit guilt but is treated as a conviction in the legal system. Andrew Buda, a defense attorney not involved in the case, commented that a positive drug test from a urine sample would not have been strong evidence against Woods, as prescription medications can remain in the body for extended periods.
Judge Darren Steele warned Woods that his driver's license suspension did not allow for exceptions, stating that any driving would result in jail time. The prosecutor expressed confidence that Woods would be recognized if he disregarded the warning.
Woods is still permitted to operate a golf cart in Florida, as state law allows individuals over 18 to drive golf carts without a license. Body camera footage from the incident showed Woods using his phone after the crash and mentioning a conversation with the president, though it was unclear if he referred to Donald Trump.
Neither Woods nor the other driver sustained injuries in the crash. Woods reported that he was distracted by his phone and changing the radio station when the accident occurred.
Woods has been involved in multiple crashes throughout his career and has taken leaves from the golf tour following incidents. He sought treatment at an inpatient facility after the latest crash and made a public appearance on June 23 to discuss the PGA Tour's future plans.
Associated Press reporters Doug Ferguson, Ed White, John Seewer, and Aamer Madhani contributed to this report.