The then-19-year-old Etienne was arrested and charged with DUI alcohol less safe — a statute that allows drivers to be convicted even in instances in
which their blood alcohol content is less than .08 — DUI under 21, reckless driving, failure to maintain
lane/improper driving on road and affixing materials that reduce visibility of windows/windshield.
His arrest was yet another driving-related incident for the Georgia football program. In 2023 alone, the Bulldogs had at least 14 arrests or citations for
speeding or reckless driving after a January 2023 crash that killed Georgia offensive lineman Devin Willock and
recruiting staffer Chandley LeCroy, an accident in which police said alcohol and excessive speeding played contributing factors.
In July, Etienne reached a plea deal. The DUI less safe and DUI under 21 charges were dismissed while he pled no contest
to reckless driving and pled guilty to underage possession of alcohol, failure to maintain lane and a window tint violation.
As part of the deal, Etienne received 12 months of probation, an $852 fine and a $45 per month supervision fee. Additionally, he has to complete a substance abuse evaluation, 40 hours of
community service and an alcohol risk reduction program, as well as being subject to random drug and alcohol screenings.
“We’re pleased the evidence didn’t support the DUI charge to begin with,” attorney Kim Stephens, who represented Etienne, said to the Athens Banner-
Herald after the plea deal was reached. “We’re pleased the Solicitor’s Office saw that and agreed to something that wasn’t a DUI.”
