Country Stars Busted by the Law But Barely Punished

Even legends aren’t immune to run-ins with the law. But in the world of country music, a familiar tune seems to play: get arrested, pay a fine, and carry on. Here are three country icons who found themselves in legal hot water but walked away with barely a bruise.

Willie Nelson, known as much for his outlaw image as his music, was arrested four times for marijuana possession. The busts span decades: 1974 in Dallas, 1977 in the Bahamas, 1994 in Waco, and 2010 once again in Texas. In each case, Nelson faced minimal consequences, usually a fine, and returned to life on the road, braids and all.

Randy Travis made headlines in 2012 after a bizarre and troubling incident. The country star crashed his car in Texas, completely naked and heavily intoxicated. He allegedly threatened officers and resisted arrest. Despite the chaos, Travis received probation and fines, and  he managed to continue his career with only a dent to his reputation.

Then there’s Glen Campbell, who faced DUI charges in 2003 in Arizona. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the incident turned surreal when Campbell reportedly kicked a police officer while singing his hit “Rhinestone Cowboy.” His punishment? A brief stint in jail and some community service.

While fans may debate whether justice was truly served, these cases show that country stardom sometimes comes with a get-out-of-jail-almost-free card.