Former Louisville Star Russ Smith Arrested for DUI in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Former Louisville basketball standout Russ Smith was arrested early Sunday for driving under the influence, reckless driving, and having unregistered plates.

The incident occurred just after midnight when Smith, 34, made an illegal U-turn near the intersection of Baxter Avenue and Highland Avenue. According to a report from the Louisville Metro Police, Det. Kyle Willis observed Smith driving a 2018 Maserati with expired plates from 2022.

Witnesses reported the vehicle crossed several lanes before entering a pedestrian crosswalk. The police report stated that Willis detected a strong smell of alcohol on Smith’s breath, who admitted to consuming “two bourbon pours neat” prior to driving.

Smith failed a walk-and-turn test and, according to the report, swayed when asked to exit the car. His Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) registered at 0.073, below the legal limit of 0.08. However, Paul Gold, a Louisville attorney specializing in DUI cases, explained that an officer can still make an arrest if additional evidence supports impairment.

“The officer doesn’t know when the person had their last drink,” Gold said, referencing state law that allows DUI charges for drivers with a BAC between 0.04 and 0.08 if other credible evidence of impairment is present.

The police report indicated a blood test result is pending. Smith showed “3 of 8 clues” during the walk-and-turn test, including stepping off the line and making an improper turn.

If the case proves difficult to prosecute due to Smith’s BAC being below the legal limit, Gold stated it could lead to plea bargains for reckless driving convictions, a common outcome in such cases.

Smith was released without bail and is scheduled to appear in Jefferson District Court on June 11. The former player, part of the 2013 Louisville team that won a national title later vacated by the NCAA, is also set to participate in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) this summer.

In TBT, Smith will play for TheVille, comprised of former UofL stars. He currently resides in Louisville and founded the Mr. and Mrs. Bourbon Company.