ATHENS, Ga. — University of Georgia's running back Trevor Etienne was arrested on Sunday morning and charged with multiple offenses, including driving under the influence (DUI) - alcohol - less safe.
The star transfer, who previously played for the Florida Gators, has since bonded out after posting over $1,800 in bail, according to Athens-Clarke County jail records.
However, the charges Etienne is facing beg the question: What is a DUI 'less safe' charge, and how does it differ from what some people know of a DUI?
When people think of DUI charges, they may picture being stopped by a police officer, pulled over and then taking a breathalyzer. The test then determines if the driver has an alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams or more -- meaning you can be charged with a DUI.
While this can very well be the case, Georgia law also allows for situations where people can refuse to take a test or have a blood alcohol concentration less than the legal limit and still be charged.
According to a state statute, a person cannot drive or be in control of a moving vehicle while under the influence of anything that could be less safe for them to drive. This can include alcohol, any drug, glue, aerosol or other toxic vapor.
So, because a test doesn't determine the 'less safe' charge, officers may be looking for other indicators of drunk or drugged driving, like bloodshot eyes, slurred speeches, driving erratically and more.
The Athens Clarke County Police Department said the 19-year-old football player's arrest was initiated after an officer observed a car driving recklessly near Will Hunter Road, leading to a traffic stop.
The police said that the reckless driving and observations made by the officer during the stop prompted them to arrest Etienne.
Etienne's other charges included reckless driving, affixing materials that reduce the visibility of windows/windshields, failure to maintain lane, and improper driving on the road. It is currently unknown whether he denied a test or tested below the legal limit. According to jail records, all charges he is facing are listed as misdemeanors.
UGA Executive Athletic Director for Strategic Communications Steven Drummond previously told 11Alive and partner UGASports that they are aware of the charges and are gathering information about the incident.
