Disturbing bodycam footage and a mugshot from Mary Lou Retton’s DUI arrest earlier this year were made public on Tuesday, offering a dramatic look at the former Olympic gymnast’s encounter with police.
In the video, the 57-year-old Retton is seen wearing a vivid yellow shirt and brown shorts as she is pulled over by officers in West Virginia. Appearing visibly flustered, Retton murmurs “Oh my God” as a police officer provides her with instructions for a field sobriety test.
The footage shows the former gold medalist struggling to comply with the test, at one point expressing frustration when asked to maintain her balance. “Oh, come on,” she can be heard saying, showing signs of agitation during the roadside evaluation.
Though the stop occurred in West Virginia, Retton told officers she only held a Texas-issued driver’s license, which she claimed was not with her at the time. Instead, she said she only had her passport on hand. Additionally, she refused to submit to a breathalyzer test, fully aware that this decision would come with an extra charge.
The incident unfolded on May 17 in the parking lot of an AutoZone and ended with Retton being placed in handcuffs. Emotional throughout, she was overheard saying, “Oh my God, Gia. They think I’m drunk,” directing her distress to a loved one who tried to speak on her behalf to police.
Despite her protests, officers escorted Retton to the local station, where she made an emotional plea to an officer, stating, “I mean, really… I know, you know [who I am].” Once there, she posed tearfully for her mugshot, which was also released Tuesday. In the bodycam footage, the mother of four continues to appear emotional, struggling with the gravity of the situation.
Retton’s arrest first came to light in late May. At that time, online records indicated she had been charged in Marion County for “driving under influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs; penalties.” A police report detailed erratic driving behavior, stating she drove her Porsche “all over the roadway” with a container of wine located next to her.
Following a court appearance in June, Retton was fined $100. She also released a public statement to “Entertainment Tonight,” taking full accountability. “I take full responsibility for my actions. What happened was completely unacceptable. I make no excuses,” she said. “To my family, friends and my fans: I have let you down, and for that I am deeply sorry. I am determined to learn and grow from this experience, and I am committed to making positive changes in my life. I truly appreciate your concern, encouragement and continued support.”
Representatives for Retton have yet to respond to Page Six’s request for comment regarding the incident and the release of the footage.
