In a recent interview, Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay made controversial statements asserting that he was targeted for his wealth and race when arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in 2014. Irsay, a wealthy billionaire with a net worth of $4.3 billion, spoke about his arrest in an HBO interview that aired on Tuesday.

During the interview with Andrea Kremer on Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, Irsay claimed, "I am prejudiced against because I'm a rich, White billionaire." He further added, "If I'm just the average guy down the block, they're not pulling me in, of course not."

Irsay pleaded guilty to one misdemeanor count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated later that year. The arrest took place on March 16, 2014, in Carmel, Indiana, where police also found prescription drugs in pill bottles. The drugs discovered were not associated with any prescription bottles in the vehicle.

The probable cause affidavit revealed that Irsay displayed signs of impairment during the arrest. His speech was "slow and slurred," his eyes were "red and glassy," and his balance was "very unsteady." He failed several field sobriety tests, including having trouble reciting the alphabet. He also mentioned difficulties in finding his house.

As a consequence of his actions, Irsay faced a suspension from the NFL, which banned him from attending the Colts' first six regular-season games of the 2014 season. Additionally, he was fined $500,000 for violating the league's personal conduct policy.

In response to Irsay's claims, the Carmel Police department issued a statement expressing their disappointment. Lt. DJ Schoeff stated, "We are very sorry to hear that comment about our officers and our department. We have a very professional agency consisting of officers that strive to protect our community with integrity and professionalism."

Criticism swiftly followed Irsay's assertions, with ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith describing them as "ridiculous" and highlighting the owner's detachment from reality. Irsay, who has been vocal about his struggles with addiction in the past, defended himself on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). He stated, "There was NO alcohol, No illegal drugs," contradicting the evidence presented in court.

The Indianapolis Colts organization and the Carmel Police department have not yet released any official statements in response to Irsay's claims. CNN has reached out to both entities for their comments on the matter.

As the controversy surrounding Irsay's statements continues to unfold, it sheds light on the intersecting issues of privilege, race, and class within the criminal justice system.