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Inside Tony Romo’s Wisconsin Arrest: New Details Surface
Former NFL Star Tony Romo Arrested in Wisconsin: Everything You Need to Know
What Happened?
Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current CBS Sports analyst Tony Romo was arrested on the night of July 23, 2024, in Wisconsin on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Key Details at a Glance
- Date: July 23, 2024 (around 6:00 PM)
- Location: Interstate 43, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
- Reason for Stop: Unsafe passing on the right and lane deviation
- Outcome: Failed field sobriety test → arrested → booked into county jail after 9:00 PM → released
- Context: Romo was in Wisconsin playing in the Wisconsin Amateur Championship golf tournament at West Bend Country Club
What Is "Operating While Intoxicated" (OWI)?
OWI is simply Wisconsin’s term for what most states call "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence) or "DWI" (Driving While Intoxicated).
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| OWI | Operating While Intoxicated (Wisconsin) |
| DUI | Driving Under the Influence (most states) |
| DWI | Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired (some states) |
Important difference: In Wisconsin, a first-time OWI is typically a civil offense (like a traffic ticket), not a criminal charge. This means:
- No jail time
- No probation
- Fines and civil penalties only
What Citations Is Romo Facing?
Romo received four separate citations after his arrest:
- Operating Under the Influence (OWI) – The main charge
- Unsafe Passing on the Right – The initial reason he was pulled over
- Possessing an Open Container of Alcohol in the Vehicle – An open bottle was found on the passenger side
- Refusing a Second Breathalyzer Test – After arrest, he declined a follow-up breath test
Important Note: Legal experts say refusing the second breath test could lead to harsher penalties, including a longer license suspension.
What the Body Cam Footage Shows
According to video obtained by The Dallas Morning News:
- Officer pulled Romo over for "unsafe passing on the right" and "lane deviation"
- Romo provided license and phone number
- When asked how many drinks he’d had, Romo asked to call his lawyer before taking field sobriety tests
- Officer asked him to step out → Romo was handcuffed
- Multiple alcohol "shooters" (small bottles) found in his backpack
- Open bottle of alcohol found on passenger side during vehicle inventory
What This Means for His Job at CBS Sports
CBS Sports has placed Romo on leave "until further notice" as of July 31, 2024.
The Background
- Role: Lead NFL color analyst (the main commentator alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz)
- Tenure: With CBS since 2017
- Contract: Signed a reported 10-year, $180 million extension in 2020
What Happens Next?
- Fill-in: Former NFL star J.J. Watt will join Jim Nantz in the broadcast booth
- First Game: Romo wasn’t scheduled until September 13 (opening Sunday of NFL season)
- Upcoming Assignment: CBS airs Cowboys vs. Ravens in Rio de Janeiro on September 27
- Decision Timeline: CBS typically announces announcer pairings for the first 3 weeks in the next couple of weeks
Timeline of Events
- July 23 (Evening) – Romo pulled over on I-43 in Milwaukee County
- July 23 (After 9 PM) – Booked into county jail, then released
- July 31 – CBS Sports announces Romo placed on leave; J.J. Watt named replacement
- September 13 – NFL regular season begins (Romo’s first scheduled game)
- September 21 – Romo’s court date in Milwaukee
- September 27 – CBS broadcasts Cowboys vs. Ravens in Rio de Janeiro
Summary
| Topic | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Arrest | Romo arrested for OWI in Wisconsin after golf tournament |
| Charges | 4 civil citations (not criminal charges) |
| Evidence | Failed sobriety test, alcohol in backpack & car, refused 2nd breath test |
| Legal Risk | Fines, license suspension – no jail time (Wisconsin law) |
| Job Impact | CBS placed him on leave; J.J. Watt stepping in |
| Next Step | Court date September 21 in Milwaukee |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Will Tony Romo go to jail?
No. In Wisconsin, a first-time OWI is a civil offense, not a crime. He faces fines and license penalties, but no jail time or probation.
2. What’s the difference between OWI and DUI?
They mean the same thing – driving drunk. "OWI" is just what Wisconsin calls it. Other states use DUI, DWI, or OUI.
3. Why did refusing the breathalyzer matter?
Wisconsin has an "implied consent" law – by driving, you agree to chemical testing. Refusing can mean longer license suspension and higher fines, even if you’re not convicted of OWI.
4. Is Romo fired from CBS?
Not yet. He’s on leave "until further notice." CBS hasn’t said "fired" – they’re likely waiting to see how the legal case plays out.
5. When will we know if he returns to broadcasting?
CBS announces commentator schedules a few weeks before the season starts (early September). His September 21 court date may influence their decision.
This article is based on public reports from The Dallas Morning News and official statements from the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office and CBS Sports. Legal outcomes are subject to change.
