Wayne Rooney became “disorientated” after taking prescribed sleeping tablets he took on a flight while drinking alcohol, according to his spokesman.
Rooney was arrested following a ‘public intoxication incident’ at Dulles Airport on December 16, it has emerged.
The DC United striker was fined $25 and had to pay $91 costs for the misdemeanour after being arrested by Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority, based near the club’s stadium.
The fine was paid on Friday and a court hearing due to take place on January 24 has been waived.
But a representative of the former Manchester United and Everton forward has explained the situation leading to his arrest.
“Wayne Rooney was arrested and detained at Dulles airport following a long flight from Saudi Arabia after a one-day promotional business trip,” read the statement.
“During the flight Wayne took a prescribed amount of sleeping tablets mixed with some alcohol consumption and consequently was disorientated on arrival.
“He was approached by police who arrested him on a minor misdemeanour charge.
“He received a statutory automatic fine and was released shortly afterwards at the airport. The matter is now at an end.
“Wayne would like to put on record his appreciation for the manner he was treated by all involved. No further comment will be made.”
“He was later released on a personal recognisance bond.”
Rooney enjoyed an impressive first season in the MLS with DC United after joining from Everton on a free transfer in June 2018.
