Rascal Flatts Guitarist J.D. Rooney Blames Deer For DUI Arrest

Joe Don Rooney of the mega-popular country band Rascal Flatts is in trouble with the law. A police affidavit out of Williamson County, TN confirms that J.D. was driving a BMW in the very early hours of the morning back in September when a deer ran in front of his vehicle. He also blamed this incident on an unlikely culprit.

Police said Rooney told them the cause of the accident was the deer. According to the report, Rooney had the smell of alcohol on his breath. Rooney admitted at the scene that he had been drinking earlier while golfing and hanging out at a friend’s house.

The guitarist was also issued several field sobriety tests. According to TMZ, Rooney failed those as well. After failing the tests, Rooney was arrested for a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence.

Rooney later posted $2,500 bond and was released from police custody. A DUI conviction in the state of Tennessee comes with penalties of 48 hours to 11 months in jail (this scales up with higher alcohol content), restitution for any physical or property damage, mandatory drug and alcohol treatment, and fines.

Those guilty of DUI in Tennessee must also complete an alcohol and drug treatment program. An Interlock device must be locked on the driver’s steering wheel at the offender’s expense. Rooney is due to return to court next month.

The listed punishments are those for first-time offenders. It’s a pretty stiff one at that. Rightfully so, since drinking and driving is one of the most dangerous things a person can do. Fortunately in this case, nothing was harmed except for some property. Rooney joins an unfortunate club which includes plenty of other celebs. Among those are retired baseball star Johnny Damon and pro wrestler Jimmy Uso.

What do you think of the penalties J.D. Rooney is facing? Share your thoughts in the comments!