What was Tahaad Pettiford charged with? Auburn guard released on $1,000 bond

Auburn basketball guard Tahaad Pettiford was arrested early Saturday morning, July 12, 2025, in Lee County, Alabama, according to a source of ESPN. The arrest was on charges of driving under the influence (DUI).

The 19-year-old is expected to lead the Tigers into a new season after withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft. He was released later the same day after posting a $1,000 bond.

Tahaad Pettiford is a Jersey City native who is considered one of the key contributors during Auburn's Final Four run earlier this year. His DUI arrest is being seen by many as a personal setback.

Who is Tahaad Pettiford?

Tahaad Pettiford is a point guard for the Auburn Tigers. He is recognized for his breakout freshman season. He is a former McDonald's All-American and four-star recruit out of Hudson Catholic in New Jersey.

In his debut season at Auburn, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game while playing under 23 minutes per outing. He played a relatively critical role in Auburn’s run to the NCAA Final Four. He put up strong numbers throughout the tournament and raised his NBA Draft stock.

Following his freshman campaign, Pettiford declared for the 2025 NBA Draft but chose to withdraw his name. He told ESPN in May:

"It was not 100% this year, so I did not want to take that chance. Going back to Auburn is a better situation for me… I see myself being a higher pick next year.”

He returned to Auburn for the 2025–2026 season.

Notably, Tahaad Pettiford has issued a public statement through his official social media regarding his arrest.

The complete statement is as follows:

"Last night, I made a serious mistake and one that I take full responsibility for. My actions put myself and others at risk, and for that, I am deeply sorry. There is no excuse. To my family, teammates, coaches, and fans, I know I have let you down. I understand the disappointment and concern this has caused, and I want you to know that I'm taking this seriously."

Tahaad Pettiford continued:

"This is not who I am, and not who I will be. I am committed to learning from this moment and making meaningful, positive changes in my life. I am grateful for the support and accountability of those around me, and I will work to earn back the trust I have lost."

According to the Lee County Sheriff's Office, Tahaad Pettiford was arrested around 3:46 a.m. on Saturday morning for driving under the influence. He was processed and held on a $1,000 bond, which he posted by midday. Notably, the legal drinking age in Alabama is 21. Pettiford is 19.

Under Alabama's "Zero Tolerance" DUI law for minors, drivers under 21 can be charged if their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.02% or higher. Authorities have not publicly disclosed Pettiford's BAC at the time of arrest. However, the officials confirmed the charge was alcohol-related.

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