Story perspectives

Tiger Woods Gets Five-Year License Suspension, $1,500 Fine

9/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tiger Woods pleaded no contest to reckless driving, receiving a five-year license suspension and $1,500 fine.
Judge Darren Steele warned Woods that driving during suspension would return him to jail.
Police noted Woods sweating, lethargic, and carrying two hydrocodone pills.
Woods refused a urine test that could detect drugs.
State Attorney Thomas Bakkedahl said toxicologists found insufficient impairment proof because Woods has painkiller tolerance.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 Brett Favre was arrested for reckless driving in Minnesota, a misdemeanor under Statute 169.13 that many states punish with up to 90 days jail for a first offense. The incident drew condemnation from the Minnesota State Patrol, the Green Bay Packers and Governor Jesse Ventura, showing how high-profile athletes repeatedly face heightened legal and public scrutiny for traffic violations.

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Story summary

Tiger Woods pleaded no contest to reckless driving, receiving a five-year license suspension and $1,500 fine.
Judge Darren Steele warned Woods that driving during suspension would return him to jail.
Police noted Woods sweating, lethargic, and carrying two hydrocodone pills.
Woods refused a urine test that could detect drugs.
State Attorney Thomas Bakkedahl said toxicologists found insufficient impairment proof because Woods has painkiller tolerance.

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