Sheriff Describes Tiger Woods' 'Lethargic' Demeanor Before DUI Arrest, Says He Won't Be in General Population in Jail
The golf legend was not injured in the rollover crash in Jupiter Island, Fla.
Tiger Woods in January 2026 Credit: Megan Briggs/TGL/TGL Golf via Getty NEED TO KNOW Tiger Woods appeared "lethargic" when he was arrested on a DUI charge on March 27, the local sheriff said The arrest came after Woods allegedly flipped over his Land Rover at a high rate of speed in Jupiter Island, Fla. Woods is in the Martin County Jail but not in the general population, due to concerns for his safety Tiger Woods appeared "lethargic" and "did exhibit signs of impairment" when he was arrested on a DUI charge after allegedly flipping over his SUV in Florida, the local sheriff told reporters Friday. Woods was charged with driving under the influence on March 27 after allegedly flipping his Land Rover onto its side in Jupiter Island, Fla.
The golf legend was allegedly driving the SUV at a high rate of speed and trying to overtake a pickup truck pulling a pressure cleaner, but clipped the back of the truck and flipped onto the driver's side. Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek told reporters at a press conference that Woods managed to climb out of the vehicle, but nonetheless appeared "lethargic," which the sheriff said he "believe[s] was due to impairment. " The sheriff said Woods was not under the influence of alcohol, passing a Breathalyzer test, but refused to take a urinalysis that could test for the presence of other drugs or medications.
Budensiek said authorities believe Woods was impaired by "medication or another substance. " No drugs or alcohol were found in his vehicle, the sheriff said. Woods was charged with DUI, as well as causing property damage and refusing to submit to the urinalysis test and was taken to the Martin County Jail, where he remained as of Friday afternoon.
Budensiek denied that Woods would be getting any preferential treatment in the local jail. "We know we arrested a high-profile figure, but the law applies the same to everyone," said Budensiek. "In jail, we will ensure his safety.