Former Olympic swimming medalist charged in federal court

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

Two-time Olympic gold medal swimmer Klete Keller was charged in federal court after evidence circulated that he participated in the U.S. Capitol riot.

Keller was charged in Washington D.C. after entering premises and grounds of the Capitol without lawful authority and entered buildings in disorderly conduct.

Keller was seen wearing a jacket with “USA” on the back after a video posted by Townhall Media became viral.

It can also be seen in the footage that Keller was together with President Donald Trump supporters that pushed against the police officers who were trying to disperse them in the area.

CEO of the U.S. Olympics & Paralympic Committee Sarah Hirshland knew about the event and will execute necessary actions together with the organization.

“First off, I strongly condemn the actions of the rioters at the U.S. Capitol. At home, and around the world, Team USA athletes are held to a very high standard as they represent our country in the field of play and off. What happened in Washington, D.C., was a case where that standard was clearly not met,” Hirshland posted on Twitter.

Keller was a former teammate of Michael Phelps that won the gold medal in Athens in 2004 and Beijing last 2008.

“We respect private individuals’ and groups’ rights to peacefully protest but in no way condone the actions taken by those at the Capitol last week,” USA swimming said.