FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) – An incident involving Olympic track star Fred Kerley has resulted in charges against him for allegedly attacking fellow athlete Alaysha Johnson. According to a Broward County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, the incident occurred at a hotel near Fort Lauderdale on a Thursday, where the 29-year-old Kerley is accused of punching Johnson, a fellow Olympic hurdler, with a closed fist, leading to injuries that included a bloody nose.

Kerley, who claimed a silver medal in the 100-meter race at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze in the same event at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and Johnson had a prior relationship. Reports indicate that their heated argument escalated during their stay at the hotel, which was intended to prepare for an upcoming track meet in the area.

In response to the allegations, Kerley's attorney, Richard Cooper, remarked that his client “has a target on his back,” suggesting that these claims may arise from jealousy and rivalry among fellow athletes. Cooper urged the public to refrain from quick judgments, emphasizing that the exculpatory facts will eventually emerge. He reiterated Kerley’s intention to focus on his athletic career and distance himself from these legal distractions as his legal team addresses the accusations.

This incident is not Kerley’s first encounter with law enforcement. In January 2023, he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a Miami Beach police officer during an incident in which a Taser was deployed. Furthermore, records indicate that he faced charges of domestic battery against his wife in May. Kerley’s legal representatives have stated that he maintains his innocence regarding these earlier accusations as well.

As the situation unfolds, the repercussions for Kerley’s career and personal life remain to be seen. His status as an Olympic medalist draws considerable attention to these serious allegations, revealing the broader implications of athletes’ conduct and how public perception can shift swiftly based on such incidents.