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Bodycam shows Tony Romo arguing with officer before refusing breath test during DUI arrest
Newly released police bodycam footage shows former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo questioning officers and refusing a breath test during his arrest on suspicion of operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Wisconsin. The footage, obtained by Fox News Digital, adds detail to a story that draws attention because Romo is a prominent NFL broadcaster and Hall of Fame-calibre former player, meaning the incident carries reputational significance for him.
The arrest took place on 23 July, with Romo telling the officer he had come from a golf course and insisted he had consumed "zero" alcoholic drinks. Despite his denial, he went on to refuse the breath test during the encounter, as captured on the officer's bodycam.
In short
- Tony Romo's OWI arrest bodycam footage released
- Romo claimed he'd had "zero" drinks after golfing
- He refused to take a breath test
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Romo asserted he had consumed no alcohol, yet refused the breath test that would have immediately verified his account and protected him legally. If genuinely sober, submitting to the test would be the logical step to prove his claim. His refusal, combined with his arrest on suspicion of OWI, suggests consciousness of guilt and raises questions about whether his denial of drinking was truthful.
The case against
Refusing a breath test is a legally protected right and does not constitute admission of guilt or impairment. Individuals may decline such tests for legitimate reasons including concerns about accuracy, legal counsel's advice, or assertion of constitutional protections, regardless of their actual sobriety status. Without a test result, bodycam evidence of impairment, or a conviction, the refusal alone cannot fairly establish guilt or indicate dishonesty in Romo's claim.
Explained simply
Tony Romo is a former quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys who now works as a prominent sports broadcaster. He was arrested in Wisconsin in July on suspicion of operating while intoxicated, which has drawn significant public attention because of his prominence.
During his arrest, Romo told officers he had come from a golf course and insisted he had consumed no alcoholic drinks. Police body-camera footage from the arrest shows him refusing to take a breath test when asked by officers.