Reality TV star booked and released on bond after Southlake stop

October 3, 2025: Former Bachelor contestant and Dancing with the Stars winner Melissa Rycroft was arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) on September 23, 2025 in Southlake, Texas. She was booked into Tarrant County Jail and later released on a $1,000 bond with a promise to appear in court.

What Happened

Rycroft was pulled over by police in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, where she was charged with driving under the influence. The circumstances leading up to the stop haven’t been fully detailed publicly. After spending approximately eight hours in jail, she posted bond and was freed pending her court date.

Her Background

Rycroft first gained fame on Season 13 of The Bachelor, where she became engaged to Jason Mesnick — only for him to break off the engagement during the After the Final Rose special. She later found renewed success in Dancing with the Stars, including winning the All-Stars season.

Married since 2009 to Tye Strickland, Rycroft is a mother of three and has also hosted reality series such as Bachelor Pad and Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.

Legal Defense and Next Steps

Her attorney, Bret Martin, reminded the public that an arrest is not proof of guilt. He urged that all evidence — including toxicology reports and law enforcement conduct — be carefully reviewed before judgment is passed. He also criticized media coverage that treats allegations as fact.

Rycroft is scheduled to appear in court shortly, where the case will move forward.