Gainesville Newspaper Publisher Arrested for DUI After Traffic Stop
Habib Bryan Boukari was Arrested for DUI
Gainesville Newspaper Publisher Arrested for DUI After Traffic Stop
GAINESVILLE, FL - The publisher of a local newspaper was arrested by Gainesville Police Department officers on charges of driving under the influence and traffic violations, according to reports from Mainstreet Daily News.
Habib Bryan Boukari, publisher of Alachua Today, was taken into custody after a traffic incident on SW 34th Street near the University of Florida campus. The arrest occurred on January 7, 2026, and involved multiple charges including DUI and failure to maintain his lane.
According to the arrest report, Boukari was stopped by officers after allegedly failing to stay in his lane while driving on SW 34th Street. During the traffic stop, officers determined he was under the influence and placed him under arrest for DUI.
Following his arrest, Boukari was taken to a local hospital after experiencing medical complaints. The nature of his medical issues was not immediately disclosed, but he was treated before being processed through the legal system.
The incident has raised questions about accountability within local media leadership, as Boukari serves as the publisher of Alachua Today, a publication that covers local news and events in the Alachua County area. The arrest comes at a time when the newspaper industry faces ongoing challenges in maintaining credibility and public trust.
DUI charges in Florida carry serious consequences, including potential license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. For a public figure in the media industry, such charges can also impact professional reputation and community standing.
The Gainesville Police Department has not released additional details about the specific circumstances of the traffic stop or Boukari’s blood alcohol content at the time of arrest. The case will proceed through the Alachua County court system, where Boukari will have the opportunity to respond to the charges.
This incident serves as a reminder that DUI enforcement remains a priority for local law enforcement agencies, regardless of an individual’s professional status or community position. The Gainesville Police Department continues to emphasize the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of road safety for all residents and visitors.
The outcome of this case may have implications for both Boukari’s personal future and his role within the local media landscape. As the publisher of a community newspaper, maintaining public trust is essential, and legal troubles can complicate that relationship with readers and advertisers alike.