In December of 2011 in the Detroit suburb of Highland Park police pulled her over because of the way that she was driving. Fakih denied that she had been drinking or that she has substance abuse issues but she was arrested for being visibly impaired and operating a motor vehicle in this condition. According to the police report and blood alcohol tests her blood alcohol level was more than double the legal limit in Michigan. In the end Rima Fakih entered a plea of no contest to charges that she was driving while impaired and was sentenced for this charge on May 11, 2012.
It is apparent that Rima Fakih has had substance abuse issues in the past. Hopefully the long fall from being crowned Miss USA to being sentenced as a drunk driver will ensure that substance abuse treatment is sought. At the sentencing hearing Judge William McConico cited a list of punishments and conditions for the former beauty queen. Fakih received 6 months probation and must perform 20 hours of community service while on probation through the court. Fines and costs were assessed by the judge totaling $600. In addition her substance abuse problem will be addressed by the requirement that Rima must attend and pass an alcohol safety class which is mandatory. A victim impact class must also be taken by the former Miss USA and she must stay out of trouble during the probation period.
