A judge ruled Tuesday that NFL player Henry Ruggs’ blood alcohol test will be used as evidence in the case against him. He’s charged with driving under the influence resulting in death.
The Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver has been accused of driving 156 mph while drunk, causing a crash that killed 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog last November. Ruggs is charged with multiple felonies, including driving under the influence resulting in death and reckless driving.
Ruggs has been on home confinement since the deadly accident. However, according to a recent ESPN column, Ruggs was granted permission in March 2022 to leave home confinement twice a week to practice at a local facility.
NFL insider Mike Florio then added to the speculation that Ruggs might be trying to make his way back into the league should things go his way.
“But what if, legally, he’s cleared?” Florio asked. “What if a court finds there was no probable cause? At that point, the NFL would be in a difficult spot. Based on precedent, a banishment would be difficult to defend.
“In 2009, receiver Donte’ Stallworth was suspended for one season after pleading guilty to DUI manslaughter. One year earlier, defensive end Leonard Little was suspended eight games after an involuntary manslaughter plea. If Ruggs has his charges thrown out, what will the NFL do? If a guilty plea to DUI manslaughter leads to a one-year suspension, what do dismissed DUI manslaughter causes trigger?
“Maybe that’s why Ruggs is working out. Maybe he’s getting ready for the possibility that he’ll eventually be cleared to return to pro football. Whether a team gives him another chance would remain to be seen.”
Ruggs faces felony charges of DUI resulting in death, DUI resulting in substantial bodily harm and two counts of reckless driving resulting in death or substantial bodily harm in regard to the crash. Authorities claim a loaded weapon was found in Ruggs’ car, leading to a misdemeanor charge of possession of a firearm while under the influence.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! Follow Us
The Raiders released Ruggs fewer than 24 hours after the crash.
In 20 NFL games, Ruggs had 50 receptions for 921 yards and four touchdowns, 12 rushing attempts for 65 yards and 11 kickoff returns for 211 yards.
A preliminary hearing in Ruggs’ case is scheduled for Sept. 7.
