Mary Lou Retton Expresses Regret Over DUI Incident
Mary Lou Retton recently voiced her sincere apologies following her arrest for driving under the influence last month.
The incident, which marks the first time Retton has been in legal trouble, occurred on May 17 in Marion County, West Virginia. The former Olympic champion, aged 57, publicly acknowledged her responsibility for the events of that day.
“I fully accept responsibility for my actions. What transpired was utterly inexcusable, and I offer no excuses. I have disappointed my family, friends, and supporters, and I am truly sorry,” Retton conveyed in a statement released to ABC News. “I am eager to learn from this mistake and am dedicated to making significant changes in my life. I am grateful for the concern, encouragement, and continued support from everyone,” she added.
The arrest occurred after local police were alerted about a Porsche with a Texas license plate being driven erratically near downtown Fairmont, according to a report by WDTV. Upon their arrival, officers located Retton in her vehicle in a parking lot of a Marion County AutoZone, with an open bottle of wine beside her. Authorities noted that Retton exhibited signs of intoxication, such as the smell of alcohol and slurred speech. After conducting three standard field sobriety tests, police concluded that she was indeed impaired.
Following her arrest, Retton was released on a $1,500 personal recognizance bond. At a court hearing on Tuesday, she pleaded no contest to a non-aggravated DUI charge and was fined $100, a penalty consistent with first-time, non-aggravated offenses in the area, her lawyer, Edmund J. Rollo, stated.
“Mary Lou did not seek any preferential treatment and faced the same legal procedures as anyone else would under similar circumstances,” Rollo explained. “She appreciates the professionalism of both the law enforcement and court system and respects the legal outcome. Mary Lou is committed to reflecting on this incident and holding herself accountable. She requests privacy as she continues to focus on her personal and professional life,” he continued.
Retton, famously known as “America’s sweetheart,” gained national fame after clinching five medals in gymnastics during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. She made history as the first American woman to secure the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics. She also earned two silver and two bronze medals during her illustrious career. Following her retirement from the sport, Retton transitioned into a motivational speaking role and served on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports during the administration of former President George W. Bush.
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