NEW YORK, Jan 4 (Bernama-dpa) — Fred Kerley, a three-time world champion in sprinting, was arrested after a confrontation with police in Miami Beach. The incident, which has garnered significant media attention, occurred early Friday morning and was captured on police body cameras.
The 29-year-old athlete, who won a bronze medal in the 100-meter dash at the 2024 Paris Olympics, was reportedly involved in an ongoing police investigation when he attempted to approach his parked vehicle. According to officials, Kerley became increasingly aggressive and refused to leave the scene. When police attempted to restrain him, they used a Taser to subdue him.
After the altercation, Kerley was taken to a local hospital for evaluation before being booked into Miami-Dade County Jail. He faced charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, but was released later the same day.
Kerley’s attorney, Richard L. Cooper, criticized the police for their actions, stating, ‘I can say that Mr. Kerley is a record-breaking athlete who has honorably and successfully represented our nation in the Olympics many times. These charges are false and indicate the brutal police state that Miami Beach has become.’
Kerley is expected to make his first court appearance following his release.
