Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III has officially been booked into Las Vegas prison after pleading guilty to driving drunk at over 150 miles per hour and crashing into a car, killing 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog in November 2021. Ruggs will now serve a 3-to-10-year prison sentence.
Ruggs’ Blood Alcohol Concentration level was twice the legal limit and also in possession of a loaded firearm while being under the influence.
He was originally charged with DUI resulting in death, DUI resulting in bodily harm, two counts of reckless driving resulting in death or substantial bodily harm, and possession of a firearm while under the influence before accepting a plea deal.
The former University of Alabama standout was selected with the No. 12 overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Raiders, playing less than two seasons for the team before the incident occurred. His former college teammate, DeVonta Smith, was excused from practice by the Philadelphia Eagles to attend Rugg’s sentencing.
Despite only being 24 years old, this all but puts an end to Ruggs’ career in the NFL. While saying sorry won’t bring Tina Tantor or her dog back, Ruggs apologized for his actions and vowed to speak “about the dangers of driving at unsafe speeds and driving and drinking” once he is out of prison.
I sincerely apologize' Ex-Raiders player Henry Ruggs sentenced in fatal DUI crash https://t.co/2rg9H1zwRA \
— Anthony Fiato (@LAmobslugger) August 9, 2023
Ruggs will be eligible for parole in August of 2026, but until then, he will have plenty of time to think and ponder his decision-making.
