Cardinals Suspend GM Steve Keim Five Weeks, Fine Him $200K For Extreme DUI

Update:

The Arizona Cardinals announced Tuesday that they’ve suspended GM Steve Keim five weeks and fined him $200,000 after he pleaded guilty Tuesday to extreme DUI following his arrest July 4.

The Cardinals will donate the fine money to the Arizona chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

“As stated at the time of the incident, this behavior is indefensible and completely unacceptable,” the Cardinals said in a statement. “While Steve has accepted full accountability and responsibility for his actions, that does not diminish their gravity nor the severity of the consequences that result from them.”

“Those who work within the National Football League – particularly those in leadership positions – bear a greater responsibility and are held to a higher standard than simply a legal one and we feel that these measures are reflective of that.”

Keim released the following statement:

“Once again, I apologize to everyone who has been negatively impacted by my actions and incredibly poor judgment, in particular the Cardinals, our fans and my family. I fully deserve and accept the punishment that has been issued. My goal is to do everything I can to grow from this personally and help others learn from my inexcusable behavior.”

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According to KTAR News, Cardinals GM Steve Keim pleaded guilty to extreme DUI.

Keim’s blood alcohol at the time of his arrest was .19, which is more than twice the legal limit.

In Arizona, an extreme DUI is for any blood alcohol content above .15 and considered a Class 1 misdemeanor. If convicted, Keim could face up to 30 days in jail.

However, KTAR notes that a jail sentence can be reduced if probation terms are followed.

Keim faces a potential suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

The Cardinals released the following statement:

“We are aware of the incident on Wednesday involving Steve Keim. He fully recognizes the seriousness of the situation and that this type of behavior is unacceptable and inexcusable.

“Steve immediately alerted the team who in turn reported it to the NFL as required under the league’s Personal Conduct Policy. We are continuing to gather information and will handle the matter appropriately and in accordance with all league policies as well as within the legal system.”

Here’s Keim’s statement regarding the matter:

“I truly regret my incredibly poor judgment and inexcusable actions. Everyone associated with the NFL and its teams is held to a high standard of behavior and I obviously failed to meet that. I sincerely apologize to our organization and its fans as well as to my family. I accept full responsibility for my actions and hold myself completely accountable. Moving forward, I will take the steps to ensure that I never put myself or the Cardinals in this type of situation again.”

Keim began working for the Cardinals as a college scout back in 1999. Arizona promoted him to Director of College Scouting in 2006 and later elevated him to Director of Player Personnel in 2008.

After one year as the Cardinals’ VP of player personnel, Keim took over as the team’s GM for the 2013 season. Arizona signed Keim to a four-year extension through the 2022 season back in February.

During his five years as the Cardinals’ GM, Keim has led the team to a record of 49-30-1, which includes two playoff appearances.