Henry Ruggs III, the former NFL wide receiver, has been moved to a high-security prison facility in Nevada. This transfer was confirmed by the Nevada Department of Corrections, which placed Ruggs at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center in Carson City.
Background on Henry Ruggs III
Ruggs, known for his successful football career, is currently serving a prison sentence ranging from three to ten years. His conviction stems from a tragic traffic accident that occurred on November 2, 2021, in Las Vegas, which resulted in the death of 23-year-old Tina Tintor and her dog.
Details of the Incident
- Date: November 2, 2021
- Time: 3:39 AM
- Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Victims: Tina Tintor and her dog Max
- Ruggs’ blood alcohol level: 0.161% (above the legal limit of 0.08%)
- Speed of Ruggs’ Corvette: 156 mph before impact; 127 mph at collision
The Clark County Coroner’s Office concluded that Tintor died from thermal injuries due to the crash, with contributing factors such as inhalation of combustion products and multiple fractures.
Legal Proceedings
Ruggs was initially charged with multiple offenses, including driving under the influence leading to death and reckless driving. However, he later accepted a plea deal in May 2023, admitting guilt to driving under the influence and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter.
In August 2023, Ruggs was sentenced according to the plea agreement, receiving between 36 and 120 months for the DUI charge and an additional six months for vehicular manslaughter.
Transfer to High-Security Facility
Prior to his current incarceration, Ruggs resided in Casa Grande Transitional Housing, a preparatory facility aimed at helping inmates reintegrate into society. The reason for his transfer to Northern Nevada Correctional Center has not been disclosed. The Department did indicate that infractions at lower custody levels can lead to reclassification to higher-security facilities.
Parole Eligibility
Ruggs is eligible for parole consideration starting August 5, 2026. However, the mandatory release date has been adjusted from July 4, 2027, to October 18, 2027. Inmates in Nevada sentenced to three or more years usually qualify for parole eligibility, barring any conditions that might deem them a public safety risk.
Statement and Reflection
During his sentencing, Ruggs expressed remorse to Tintor’s family, acknowledging the pain his actions caused. He stated, “I sincerely apologize for the pain and suffering my actions have caused.” His hope is that accepting responsibility will aid in the healing process for all involved.
Ruggs’ Football Career
Before his legal troubles, Ruggs had a standout football career, highlighted by his time at Alabama and a successful stint with the Las Vegas Raiders. He was a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, establishing himself as a promising talent in professional football.
Following his arrest, the Raiders terminated Ruggs’ contract the same day as the accident, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the young athlete. His case has drawn significant media attention, emphasizing the severe consequences of driving under the influence.
