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Melissa Rycroft was arrested in Dallas, Texas, on Sept. 23, according to TMZ. The former reality star — who appeared on Jason Mesnick’s season of The Bachelor before going on to compete on Dancing With the Stars — was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI (driving under the influence), per the outlet. TMZ also uploaded a photo of Rycroft’s mugshot.
Her lawyer has released a statement to TMZ in light of the news.
“I want to remind the public of the fundamental principle of our justice system…every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. We, as a society, have gotten completely away from this fundamental concept. My client was arrested on the allegation of Driving While Intoxicated. An arrest is no indication of guilt,” Bret Martin said.
“It is imperative that we closely examine the circumstances of this case-including the conduct of law enforcement, the toxicology results, and the facts surrounding her arrest-before any conclusions are drawn. We respectfully request that the media and the public allow the legal process to unfold, and withhold any judgment whatsoever until all of the evidence has been properly analyzed and presented in a court of law,” he added.
Rycroft, 42, first competed on Season 8 of Dancing With the Stars, finishing in third place with her pro partner, Tony Dovolani. She returned for the All Stars season where she and Dovolani took home the coveted Mirrorball trophy.
Rycroft has not spoken out about the arrest, nor has she posted on social media since it happened. Her most recent Instagram post was uploaded on Sept. 5 and is of her and her daughter, Ava, 14. Rycroft also shares sons Beckett, 11, and Cayson, 9, with husband Tye Strickland.
The Sept. 5 Instagram share has since had its comments section filled with comments about Rycroft’s arrest.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Oct 3, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.yahoo.com ’
