Former NBA star Lamar Odom has spoken publicly about his recent arrest for driving under the influence in Las Vegas. The 46‑year‑old insisted he wasn’t under the influence of alcohol or narcotics when he was pulled over, even as the police report includes details that made the situation look a lot more complicated.
Lamar Odom Finally Addressed The DUI Arrest After Days Of Silence
Odom’s arrest goes back to the early hours of January 17, when Las Vegas police pulled him over on Interstate 15. Officers said his SUV was traveling over 100 miles per hour before they turned on their lights.
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Along with the DUI charge, Odom was also booked for traffic violations tied to the stop. Police listed speeding, including driving more than 41 miles per hour over the speed limit, plus lane issues like an improper lane change or failing to stay in his lane.
Odom told TMZ he was taking responsibility for what happened. “I am learning from this experience and remain committed to my continued growth,” Odom said. “I’ve worked hard to rebuild my life, and taking responsibility is an essential part of that process.” He added, “I am cooperating fully, staying honest, and focused on moving forward with integrity. Thank you to those who continue to support me.” He also repeated that he was not under the influence of alcohol or narcotics at the time of his arrest.
This moment also hits differently because of Odom’s past. Fans know his history includes a previous DUI arrest in 2013 and a widely publicized near‑fatal overdose in 2015, so this latest situation immediately raised concerns.
The Police Report’s Bloodshot Eyes And Vehicle Smell Of Marijuana Detail Made It Messier
TMZ Sports reported that the police report added several details that made the stop sound worse. Officers allege Odom’s SUV changed lanes without signaling, then used turn signals without changing lanes.
After pulling him over, police reported an “overwhelming odor of Marijuana emanating from the vehicle” and said Odom’s eyes looked bloodshot and watery. When asked about his speed, he allegedly told officers he was on the phone with his manager and was almost home.
Police also questioned marijuana use. According to the report, Odom first said his passenger was smoking a “little bit” of weed, then said he “doesn’t really smoke” before adding that he “does not smoke marijuana.” He also denied drinking alcohol.
Officers said Odom made small talk, including joking about “driving like he was in ‘Back To The Future.'” When he stepped out, they claim the SUV rolled briefly because it was still in drive.
Police say Odom later admitted he smoked “hours, hours earlier,” around 4:00 pm. Officers then ran field sobriety tests and allege he showed signs of impairment, including balance issues and eyelid tremors. They also claim he missed the tip of his nose six times and misjudged time, saying 30 seconds passed when only 13 seconds had elapsed. After the tests, police told him they believed he was impaired and asked if he would do more testing.
What happens next matters most. Odom says he’s taking accountability and trying to move forward, but the details in the report are the kind that tend to linger. Either way, it’s a reminder that one mistake can quickly become a public story, especially when your past is already part of the conversation.
Published: Jan 21, 2026 02:49 pm