Cleveland Browns defensive end Lonnie Phelps was arrested on Wednesday night in Key West, Florida, after allegedly crashing his car into a local restaurant while under the influence of alcohol. The incident resulted in property damage and a citation for DUI, according to TMZ. The crash caused an estimated $3,000 worth of damage to the Red Shoe Island Bistro, as reported by ESPN.
The Key West Police Department shared a photo of the accident on their Facebook page, revealing a Black Hyundai wedged into the side of the restaurant. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The police report states that the accident occurred around 8:47 p.m. ET, and when officers attempted to interview Phelps and his girlfriend, who was also in the car during the incident, they allegedly refused to cooperate.
TMZ reported that Phelps exhibited signs of intoxication and continuously disobeyed police orders while engaging in conversation. He agreed to participate in sobriety tests but became combative after raising concerns about the testing procedures. Subsequently, Phelps was taken into custody and placed in a police car, where he continued to voice complaints and express thirst.
At the police station, Phelps reportedly refused to take a breathalyzer test and urinated on himself while seated. He is scheduled to appear in court next month to address the charges.
The Cleveland Browns released a brief statement to TMZ, acknowledging the incident and stating that they are currently gathering more information. Phelps, a product of Kansas/Miami (Ohio), went undrafted in 2023 but signed with the Browns. Although he has yet to appear in a game, he was signed to a reserve/future contract in January.