Tony Romo pleads no contest to charge of operating while intoxicated and issues statement of apology

CBS broadcaster Tony Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, has pleaded no contest to a charge of operating while intoxicated and issued an apology for his actions. The plea came after his arrest in July following a traffic stop on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin.

Romo was placed on leave from his role as CBS's lead NFL analyst following his arrest. According to court records, he lost his driving privileges for six months and was ordered to complete an alcohol assessment program. Additionally, he owes $834 in fines. An interlock device must be installed on any vehicle owned or operated by Romo, and this requirement will remain in effect for at least one year post-license reinstatement.

In a statement on Instagram, Romo expressed that the past month has been both difficult and personally significant. He mentioned that the experience required him to fully confront and acknowledge his mistakes, including those made to the Lord, himself, his family, and the public. Romo detailed how back surgeries leading to his retirement as a player left him with constant, debilitating pain. This pain, in turn, led to a dependence on pain medication and, ultimately, an over-reliance on alcohol.

Romo emphasized that these issues are his failures and he takes full responsibility for them. He is currently working with a team of doctors to address his health and make the necessary changes. He expressed gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and the NFL community. As he focuses on his health, family, and potential return to CBS, Romo requested privacy during this period.