Lamar Odom, the former NBA star and two-time champion, was arrested in Las Vegas for driving under the influence early on January 17, 2026, marking another legal setback in his long-publicized struggles with substance abuse. The 46-year-old athlete faces charges including DUI, driving more than 41 miles per hour over the speed limit, and an improper lane change, with a court hearing scheduled for March 17 in Nevada.
According to arrest records viewed by E! News and People, Odom was taken into custody in the early hours of Saturday, January 17, following the traffic violations. TMZ first reported the incident, and as of midday local time, he was believed to still be in custody. The arrest underscores ongoing challenges for Odom, who has a history of DUI-related incidents, including a 2013 arrest in California that resulted in probation and fines.
This latest arrest comes amid a backdrop of personal turmoil for Odom, who has been open about his past substance abuse issues. In 2015, he suffered a near-fatal overdose at a Las Vegas brothel, experiencing multiple heart attacks and strokes that left him in a coma for days. He later attributed his recovery to a desire to be present for his children, Destiny and Lamar Jr., whom he shares with ex-girlfriend Liza Morales.
Odom’s legal troubles have often intersected with his high-profile personal life, particularly his marriage to Khloé Kardashian from 2009 to 2016. During his recovery from the 2015 overdose, Kardashian remained by his side, and in a recent reunion on ‘The Kardashians,’ Odom expressed gratitude for her support while acknowledging the pain he caused. His memoir, ‘Darkness to Light,’ details these struggles and his journey toward sobriety.
The charges against Odom include not only DUI but also significant speeding, indicating potentially reckless behavior at the time of arrest. Nevada law imposes strict penalties for DUI convictions, which could include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time, depending on prior records and circumstances.
Odom’s past DUI case in California saw him plead no contest, resulting in three years of probation, fines, and an alcohol education program. Given this history, the current charges in Nevada may lead to heightened scrutiny and possibly more severe consequences, as repeat offenses are often treated more harshly in the legal system.
Looking ahead, Odom is set to appear in court on March 17, where he will face the charges and potentially negotiate a plea deal or proceed to trial. The outcome could impact his public image and ongoing efforts to maintain sobriety, as he continues to navigate life after basketball and personal challenges.
In summary, Lamar Odom’s arrest for DUI in Las Vegas highlights the persistent issues he faces with substance abuse and legal matters, drawing attention from fans and media alike as he prepares for his court date and the implications for his future.
